A zookeeper at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Ogun State, tragically lost his life after being attacked by a lion. The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the incident, which occurred on Saturday, September 28, 2024. According to the police spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, Babaji Daule, a 35-year-old lion handler from Bauchi State, was fatally injured when the lion escaped from its enclosure during a feeding session.
The zookeeper reportedly failed to properly secure the enclosure before attempting to feed the animal. The lion attacked, inflicting fatal injuries to Daule’s neck. The police further stated that the lion had to be shot to release its hold on the victim.
The management of the OOPL Wildlife Park also released a statement, explaining that Daule had been conducting an after-hours demonstration for visitors. His actions were described as inconsistent with the park’s standard safety protocols, and an investigation is underway. The park expressed condolences to the victim’s family and reassured the public of its commitment to safety.
Daule’s body was transported to the mortuary at Ijaye General Hospital following the incident.
