Tragedy Strikes as Lion Kills Top Nigerian University Staff in Feeding Incident

A nine-year-old male lion attacked and killed a staff member at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Nigeria on Monday, February 19, 2024.

The tragic incident occurred when Mr. Olabode Olawuyi, a Veterinary Technologist who had been in charge of the university’s Zoological garden for over a decade, was feeding the lion in its den.

The news of the attack sent shockwaves through the university community, and the management team, led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, abruptly ended an ongoing meeting to assess the situation.

Despite the best efforts of other staff members to rescue Mr. Olawuyi, the wild cat had already inflicted severe injuries, and all first aid and medical efforts to save his life proved abortive.

In response to the tragic event, the university has taken the necessary step of euthanizing the aggressive lion.

Mr. Olawuyi had been caring for the lions since they were born on campus about nine years ago, making the incident even more heart-wrenching.

The university management has sent a delegation to the family of the deceased, offering their condolences and support during this difficult time.

In a statement, they implored the family to take solace in the fact that God gives life and also has the power to take it away.

The Student Union President, Mr. Abbas Akinremi, confirmed the incident and clarified that the attack was a result of human error rather than any negligence on the part of the management.

He assured students that they are safe and that the campus remains calm in the wake of the incident.

As one of Nigeria’s top universities known for its academic excellence and contributions to the country’s innovations, the OAU community is now left to mourn the loss of a dedicated staff member in this unfortunate tragedy.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers associated with working with wild animals and the importance of maintaining strict safety protocols in such environments.