LAGOS, Nigeria (AFP) — A Nigerian conservation NGO has expressed deep disappointment over Turkey’s decision to retain a young African gorilla rescued from wildlife trafficking, calling the move illogical. The primate, named Zeytin, was discovered at Istanbul airport in December, concealed in a wooden crate during a transit from Nigeria to Thailand. Initially taken to a Turkish zoo for recovery, Zeytin’s repatriation to Nigeria was halted after DNA tests revealed he belonged to a gorilla species not native to the West African nation. Turkish authorities announced on Friday that Zeytin would remain in a Turkish zoo, a decision that has drawn criticism from conservationists. The Pandrillus Foundation, a Nigerian NGO, had planned to house Zeytin alongside another young gorilla of the same sub-species before transferring them to a sanctuary in central Africa. Liza Gadsby, director of the Pandrillus Foundation, voiced her frustration, stating that Turkey’s actions contradict its obligations as a signatory to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). She emphasized that while Turkey’s initial confiscation of Zeytin was commendable, retaining him in captivity undermines conservation efforts. The Pandrillus Foundation is now focusing on repatriating another gorilla confiscated by Nigerian customs over two years ago, reaffirming their commitment to wildlife conservation.