September 29, 2024
By Samuel Ogunsona
Another tragic incident has occurred at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) Wildlife Park on Saturday evening, resulting in the death of a zookeeper.
According to a statement released by the park’s management on Sunday, the zookeeper was fatally attacked by a lion within the park premises.
The statement read: “The zookeeper, at the heeding of some guests who came after the closing time of the park, agreed to take the guests to demonstrate the feeding routine of the lion in its inner enclosure. The zookeeper, apparently, feeling comfortable with the animal, left the safety protection gate open and proceeded to feed the animal. He was mauled by the animal and died on the spot.
“To prevent further mutilation of the body, the animal was put down immediately by personnel of the park. It is important to state that this activity fell completely out of the standard feeding routine of the park.
“Investigations have begun, and the matter has since been reported to the police for their investigation.
“The park commisserates with the family of the deceased.
“We wish to assure the public that the park is committed to the highest standard of safety and protection both for visiting members of the public, wildlife staff and for the Wildlife itself”.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns about safety protocols and animal handling procedures at the park.
However, The Yoruba Times recall similar incident happened In February 2024, where a victim was killed by a lion.
The victim identified as Olabode Olawuyi was a Veterinary Technologist, who is said to have been in charge of the institution’s zoological garden for more than 10 years.
The Nigerian conservation community and zoo professionals will be watching the outcome of this investigation closely
