Zookeeper mauled to death by Lion in Nigeria

A zookeeper has tragically lost his life after being mauled by a lion at the Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Nigeria. The 35-year-old victim, identified as Babaji Daule, reportedly failed to secure the enclosure locks while attempting to feed the animal.

Local police spokesperson Omolola Odutola stated that “the lion inflicted serious fatal injuries to the man’s neck.” In response to the attack, the lion was shot to “release its grip on the handler.”

According to a statement from the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, where the park is located, the incident occurred Saturday evening after Daule had taken guests to observe the lion’s feeding routine. The park reported, “The zookeeper, apparently feeling comfortable with the animal, left the safety protection gate open and proceeded to feed the animal. He was mauled by the animal and died on the spot.”

This incident raises serious concerns about the safety protocols in place at wildlife facilities in Nigeria, particularly following a similar tragedy less than a year ago, when another zookeeper was killed by a lion at Obafemi Awolowo University. The public is now questioning the regulations and management practices governing the handling of wild animals in the country.