Zookeeper Mauled to Death by Lion in Southwestern Nigeria

A tragic incident unfolded at the Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, where a zookeeper was fatally mauled by a lion after failing to secure the locks on its enclosure during feeding time.

The victim, identified as 35-year-old Babaji Daule, was a trained lion handler employed at the park, which is owned by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo. The attack occurred on Saturday evening when Daule took some guests to observe the lion’s feeding routine after regular hours.

According to a statement from the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, the zookeeper, feeling at ease with the lion, left the protective gate open while feeding the animal. This lapse in safety led to the lion attacking him, inflicting fatal injuries to his neck. Daule died on the spot.

Local police spokesperson Omolola Odutola confirmed the incident, stating that the lion had to be shot by park personnel to prevent further mutilation of the body. The lion was put down immediately after the attack.

This tragic death comes less than a year after another zookeeper was killed by a lion at Obafemi Awolowo University, also located in southwestern Nigeria.