A tragic incident occurred at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile-Ife Zoological Park, where a nine-year-old lion fatally attacked Olabode Olawuyi, a dedicated Veterinary Technologist who had cared for the zoo’s lions for over a decade. Despite his years of experience, the male lion turned on Olawuyi while he was carrying out his duties. Despite valiant efforts from fellow staff members to rescue him, the injuries sustained were too severe, and Olawuyi could not be saved.
Upon learning of the incident, Vice-Chancellor Professor Adebayo Simeon BAMIRE was briefed on the futile medical efforts to save Olawuyi’s life. The university management, deeply saddened by the loss, took the difficult decision to euthanize the aggressive lion involved in the attack.
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In the wake of this tragedy, the university has reached out to support Olawuyi’s family, urging them to find solace in faith during this difficult time. Furthermore, an investigation has been launched to understand the circumstances leading to the attack. Such a heartbreaking event underscores the inherent risks associated with working closely with wild animals, even in controlled environments.
