Tragic Incident at OAU Zoo: Zookeeper Dies Saving Colleague from Lion Attack

In a heart-wrenching incident at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) zoological garden in Nigeria, a zookeeper named Olabode Olawuyi was tragically killed while attempting to rescue a female colleague from a ferocious lion attack on February 21, 2024.

The lion, a 9-year-old male, had initially attacked the woman, prompting Olawuyi to intervene in an attempt to save her.

According to Wole Odewumi, the Chairman of the OAU branch of the National Association of Non-Academic Staff of Universities (NASU), the incident occurred when the lion turned its attention from the female colleague to Olawuyi, who was unable to escape the animal’s grasp.

Sadly, Olawuyi passed away en route to the campus health center.

The OAU management has since shut down the zoological garden and held a mourning procession in honor of the deceased zookeeper.

The university has also met with Olawuyi’s family to discuss the incident and has promised to take necessary actions to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

This devastating event highlights the dangers faced by zookeepers and the importance of maintaining strict safety protocols in animal enclosures.

It is a somber reminder of the risks that these dedicated professionals face in their efforts to protect and care for wildlife in captivity.

The tragic death of Olabode Olawuyi at the OAU zoo serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by zookeepers in their line of work.

As the community mourns the loss of a brave and selfless individual, it is crucial to learn from this incident and ensure that proper safety measures are in place to protect both humans and animals in zoological facilities.