A devastating incident occurred at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, where a 35-year-old zoo worker, identified as Babaji Daule, was fatally attacked by a lion on Saturday.
The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the attack, reporting that Daule, who hailed from Bauchi State, had neglected to secure the locks and barricades of the lion's enclosure while attempting to feed the animal. This oversight allowed the lion to escape and launch an attack, leading to severe injuries to Daule's neck, ultimately resulting in his death.
In the aftermath of the tragic event, Daule's body was transported to the mortuary at Ijaye General Hospital. Authorities responded by shooting the lion to prevent any further harm.
In a statement on Sunday, the management of OOPL Wildlife Park said the incident happened on Saturday evening.
The statement read: “The zookeeper, at the heeding of some guests who came after the closing time of the park, agreed to take the guests to demonstrate the feeding routine of the lion in its inner enclosure. The zookeeper, apparently, feeling comfortable with the animal, left the safety protection gate open and proceeded to feed the animal. He was mauled by the animal and died on the spot.
“To prevent further mutilation of the body, the animal was put down immediately by personnel of the park. It is important to state that this activity fell completely out of the standard feeding routine of the park.
“Investigations have begun, and the matter has since been reported to the police for their investigation.
“The park commisserates with the family of the deceased.
“We wish to assure the public that the park is committed to the highest standard of safety and protection both for visiting members of the public, wildlife staff and for the Wildlife itself”.