A lion at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Ogun State, has killed its handler, Babaji Daule.
Daule, 35, was reported killed while approaching the cage to feed the lion on Saturday.
According to the park’s management, the zookeeper, identified as 35-year-old Babaji Daule from Bauchi State, left the safety gate open while attempting to feed the lion in its inner enclosure. Feeling comfortable with the animal, he proceeded to feed it, but was attacked and killed instantly.
To prevent further mutilation of the body, park personnel immediately euthanized the lion.
The park management stated that this feeding activity was outside the standard protocol.
The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the incident, highlighting that Daule had failed to secure the locks and barricade of the lion’s enclosure properly. This oversight reportedly allowed the lion to escape and fatally attack him, inflicting severe injuries to his neck.
Daule’s body has been transported to the mortuary at Ijaye General Hospital, and investigations into the incident are underway, with the matter reported to the police for further inquiry.
