Residents of Abuja’s highbrow and gated estates may be living closer to a hidden environmental danger than they realize, according to property management professionals who have raised concerns over increasing snake activity across residential communities in the Federal Capital Territory.
Findings from estate management observations indicate that snakes, particularly cobras and pythons, are becoming more commonly sighted in both upscale and suburban residential estates. Contrary to long-held assumptions, these reptiles are not restricted to bushy terrains, rural settlements, or satellite towns. Experts say they are increasingly adapting to structured urban environments, including modern estates with paved roads and organized infrastructure.
An Estate Surveyor who manages multiple residential estates across Abuja disclosed that snake activity is being recorded in nearly every category of housing development, ranging from inner-city estates to those located along the outskirts of the capital.
According to him, many residents remain unaware of the risks because snakes often remain hidden and active mainly at night. He noted that drainage systems, ceiling compartments, abandoned materials, and unsealed structural gaps provide ideal breeding and hiding spaces for reptiles within residential environments.
Environmental safety specialists emphasize that regular fumigation of homes and surrounding areas should be considered a preventive safety measure rather than a luxury service. They warn that poor environmental maintenance increases the likelihood of reptiles and other dangerous pests inhabiting residential compounds.
Property experts also advise caution when renting homes in compounds where poultry farming is conducted. Poultry activities often attract rodents, which serve as a major food source for snakes, thereby increasing the probability of snake presence around residential buildings.
In one documented case within a well-organized Abuja estate, residents reportedly encountered frequent snake sightings, with several reptiles eliminated within a short period. Residents also reported hearing unusual movements beneath drainage channels during nighttime hours. Shortly after one resident relocated from the estate, a large python was discovered and killed within the premises, highlighting the scale of the potential threat.
Environmental observers note that one commonly overlooked warning sign of possible snake activity is the sudden absence of rodents and lizards in residential surroundings. While often interpreted as evidence of cleanliness, experts caution that it may instead suggest the presence of predators that naturally reduce populations of smaller animals.
Urban safety advocates recommend that residents take proactive steps to minimize risks. Suggested measures include sealing structural holes around buildings, properly covering ceiling manholes, clearing scrap metals and abandoned tyres, removing wood piles, securing drainage openings, and eliminating dark or cluttered areas within compounds that may serve as reptile shelters.
In addition, certain plants such as lemongrass and snake-repellent varieties are believed to help discourage reptiles from nesting around homes, although experts stress that landscaping alone should not replace comprehensive environmental safety practices.
Public health advocates describe snake bites as a preventable environmental hazard. Recent reports of fatal snake bite incidents, including the death of a young woman in Abuja, have intensified calls for increased public awareness and preventive action among residents and estate managers.
Experts maintain that the growing concern should not trigger panic but should instead encourage vigilance and responsible environmental management within residential communities.
They stress that early awareness, consistent property maintenance, and adherence to basic safety precautions remain the most effective means of reducing snake-related risks in urban residential areas.
Residents are therefore urged to remain alert and proactive in safeguarding their homes and surroundings against hidden environmental dangers.
By Bola Babarinde
