Lion kills zookeeper at Nigeria’s Obafemi Awolowo University


In a devastating turn of events at Obafemi Awolowo University in Osun state, Nigeria, a somber cloud envelops the campus as the news of Olabode Olawuyi’s untimely demise spreads like wildfire. Olawuyi, a dedicated veterinary technologist entrusted with the care of the university’s resident lions for nearly a decade, met a tragic end while performing his routine duties. As he approached the lion enclosure to feed the majestic beasts he had nurtured since their birth nine years ago, fate dealt a cruel hand. Without warning, one of the male lions, a creature he had tended to with care and compassion, turned on him with deadly ferocity.

The university’s spokesman, Abiodun Olarewaju, expressed shock and disbelief at the sudden turn of events, lamenting the inexplicable aggression displayed by the normally docile lion. “We never knew what came over the male lion that it had to attack [him],” Olarewaju remarked, echoing the sentiments of a community left reeling in disbelief. Graphic images of the harrowing mauling circulated on social media, serving as a grim reminder of the dangers inherent in working closely with wild animals.

Amidst the grief-stricken atmosphere, questions abound regarding the circumstances leading up to the tragic incident. The students’ union leader, Abbas Akinremi, suggested that human error may have played a role, alleging that the zookeeper had forgotten to secure the enclosure after feeding the lions. Such claims have ignited debates about the adequacy of safety measures in place within the university’s zoo, prompting calls for a thorough investigation by the authorities.

Meanwhile, the university’s vice-chancellor, Prof Adebayo Simeon Bamire, expressed profound sadness over the loss of a valued member of the campus community. “We are deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident and extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Mr. Olawuyi,” Prof. Bamire stated, vowing to leave no stone unturned in determining the sequence of events that led to the tragedy.

As the shockwaves reverberate throughout the university, the legacy of Olabode Olawuyi lives on in the memories of those who knew him. Described as a “good and humble man” by students who frequented the zoo, his absence leaves a void that cannot be easily filled. Yet amidst the sorrow, there are voices of resilience, like that of Abba Gandu, a seasoned zookeeper with over five decades of experience. Reflecting on the incident, Gandu emphasized the need for enhanced safety measures while reaffirming his unwavering dedication to the noble task of caring for wild animals.

Indeed, the tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks faced by those who work tirelessly to safeguard and preserve our natural world. As the university community grapples with grief and introspection, one thing remains certain: the memory of Olabode Olawuyi will endure as a testament to his unwavering commitment to the welfare of the creatures under his care.

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