A 9-year-old male lion at the Zoological garden of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, tragically killed a dedicated zookeeper named Olabode Olawuyi. Olawuyi, a Veterinary Technologist who had been in charge of the Zoological garden for over a decade, was carrying out his usual duties of feeding the wild cats when the incident occurred.
The Public Relations Officer of the university, Abiodun Olarewaju, confirmed the heartbreaking incident in a statement on Monday. He mentioned that other staff members present at the scene did everything in their power to rescue Olawuyi, but unfortunately, the lion had already inflicted severe injuries.
The university management expressed deep condolences to Olawuyi’s family and friends, acknowledging the immense loss they have suffered. In response to the incident, the management has initiated a comprehensive investigation to determine both the immediate and remote causes of this tragic event.
It is worth noting that Olawuyi had been responsible for the care of these lions since their birth on campus approximately nine years ago. The bond he had developed with the animals makes this incident even more heart-wrenching.
The incident highlights the inherent risks involved in working closely with wild animals, even for experienced professionals like Olawuyi. It serves as a reminder of the importance of implementing stringent safety protocols and measures to ensure the well-being of both the animals and the staff.
As the investigation unfolds, the university management aims to identify any lapses in safety procedures and take appropriate steps to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. The welfare of the animals and the safety of the staff remain paramount concerns for the university…
