Zookeeper mauled to death by lion in Nigeria
A zookeeper in south-western Nigeria has been fatally mauled by a lion after failing to properly secure the enclosure’s locks before feeding it, according to police.
The victim, a 35-year-old man, worked at the Presidential Library Wildlife Park, owned by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun state.
Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola stated that the lion inflicted severe and fatal injuries to the man’s neck.
The lion was shot to “release its grip on the handler,” Odutola added.
The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library released a statement explaining that the zookeeper had taken guests to observe the lion’s feeding routine after hours on Saturday evening.
“Feeling at ease with the animal, the zookeeper left the protective gate open and began feeding the lion. The animal attacked, resulting in his death on the spot,” the statement said.
To prevent further mutilation of the body, park personnel immediately euthanized the lion.
The victim has been named as Babaji Daule, described by police as a trained lion handler.
It comes less than a year after another zookeeper was attacked and killed by a lion at the Obafemi Awolowo University, also in south-western Nigeria.
The incident has triggered concerns with people raising questions about the country’s regulations and management of zoos and handling of wild animals.
