In a shocking and tragic incident on Monday, a 9-year-old male lion at the Zoological garden of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, claimed the life of Mr. Olabode Olawuyi, a dedicated Veterinary Technologist who had been in charge of the Zoological garden for over a decade.

The Public Relations Officer of the university, Abiodun Olarewaju, confirmed the devastating occurrence in a statement, revealing that Mr. Olawuyi had been responsible for the care of the lions since their birth on the campus approximately nine years ago. However, on this fateful day, the male lion turned on the man who had been nurturing and feeding him.

Despite the valiant efforts of other staff members who rushed to the scene, the wild cat had already inflicted severe injuries, leading to fatal consequences for Mr. Olawuyi.

Upon learning of the tragic news, the university’s management team, led by Vice Chancellor Prof Adebayo Bamire, swiftly ended an ongoing meeting for an on-the-spot assessment. Dr. Tirimisiyu Olatunji, the Acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre, informed the Vice-Chancellor that all first aid and medical efforts to save the victim’s life proved unsuccessful.

In a sorrowful decision, the aggressive lion was euthanized to ensure the safety of others within the Zoological garden.

Expressing condolences, the university management sent a delegation to Mr. Olawuyi’s widow and children, urging them to find solace in the divine power that gives and takes life.

In response to the incident, the management has initiated a comprehensive investigation into both the immediate and remote causes, emphasizing the need for a thorough understanding of the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.

This heart-wrenching incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with working closely with wild animals, even in controlled environments, and prompts a crucial reevaluation of safety measures within such facilities.