Tragic Lion Mauling: A Zookeeper’s Death in Nigeria

A zookeeper named Babaji Daule was mauled to death by a lion at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Nigeria. The incident occurred when he failed to secure the lion’s enclosure while feeding it. The lion was subsequently euthanized to protect the victim’s body. This incident, which raises concerns over wildlife management and safety regulations in Nigeria, follows a previous similar attack less than a year ago.

In a tragic incident at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Ogun State, a zookeeper by the name of Babaji Daule was fatally mauled by a lion. The harrowing event occurred when the 35-year-old zookeeper neglected to secure the enclosure’s locks while attempting to feed the lion. According to local police spokesperson Omolola Odutola, the lion inflicted severe injuries to the man’s neck, leading to his instantaneous death. Following the attack, park personnel were compelled to euthanize the lion to prevent further mutilation of the victim’s body. The unfortunate incident transpired after hours when Mr. Daule showed guests the lion’s feeding routine, mistakenly assuming the animal was under proper control. This event raises significant concerns regarding zoo regulations and the management of wildlife in Nigeria, echoing a prior incident where another zookeeper faced a similar fate at Obafemi Awolowo University less than a year prior.

The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park is a prominent wildlife attraction in Nigeria, owned by former President Olusegun Obasanjo. This facility houses various animals, including lions, and serves both educational and recreational purposes for visitors. The incident involving the zookeeper follows previous attacks on animal handlers in Nigeria, highlighting ongoing issues associated with wildlife management and safety protocols within zoos. These events have sparked discussions about the adequacy of regulations governing animal handling and zoo operations across the country.

The tragic death of Babaji Daule underscores the inherent dangers associated with working in proximity to wild animals and calls into question the practices and safety measures currently in place within Nigerian wildlife facilities. The necessity for stringent regulations and training for zookeepers cannot be overstated, particularly in light of recent fatal incidents. Ensuring the safety of both animal and human interactions remains a critical area for improvement in the management of wildlife parks.

Original Source: www.bbc.com