A tragic incident occurred at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile-Ife Zoological Park, resulting in the death of a long-serving staff member, Olabode Olawuyi, at the hands of a nine-year-old lion in the zoo.
According to a statement released by the University’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, Olawuyi, a Veterinary Technologist, had been overseeing the Zoological garden for over a decade.
“Mr. Olawuyi had been caring for the lions since their birth on campus about 9 years ago, but tragically, the male lion attacked and killed him,” the statement reads.
Despite the efforts of other staff members present at the scene to rescue him, the lion’s attack proved fatal.
Upon being informed of the incident, Vice-Chancellor Professor Adebayo Simeon BAMIRE was briefed by the Acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre, Dr. Tirimisiyu Olatunji, who confirmed that all attempts to save Olawuyi’s life were unsuccessful.
In response to the tragic event, the aggressive lion has been euthanized.
The University management has dispatched a delegation to offer condolences and support to the deceased’s widow and children, urging them to find solace in faith during this difficult time.
The statement concluded by stating that a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident has commenced to determine both the immediate and remote causes.