Hunters Kill Lion Responsible for OAU Zookeeper's Death as Fresh Details Emerge

Fresh details have emerged regarding the incident, revealing that Olawuyi had been breeding the lion since it was a cub, indicating a longstanding relationship between the zookeeper and the animal. Following the attack, hunters initiated efforts to locate and neutralize the lion, which also injured another staff member at the zoo.

Feb 21, 2024 - 12:41 Updated: Feb 21, 2024 - 16:35

Hunters Kill Lion Responsible for OAU Zookeeper's Death as Fresh Details Emerge

In response to the tragic incident at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), hunters have successfully killed the 9-year-old lion responsible for the death of zookeeper Olabode Olawuyi. Olawuyi, a 59-year-old veterinary technologist, was fatally attacked by the lion at the university's zoological garden in Ile-Ife, Osun state.

Fresh details have emerged regarding the incident, revealing that Olawuyi had been breeding the lion since it was a cub, indicating a longstanding relationship between the zookeeper and the animal. Following the attack, hunters initiated efforts to locate and neutralize the lion, which also injured another staff member at the zoo.

The hunters approached the lion's cage and shot it in one of its legs, causing the animal to attempt to flee but ultimately succumb to its injuries. The decision to euthanize the lion was made due to safety concerns and the potential risk posed by the animal.

The tragic event has led to the closure of the zoological garden on the university campus, as confirmed by the Chairman of the National Association of Non-Academic Staff of Universities (NASU), OAU branch, Wole Odewumi. The closure underscores the seriousness of the incident and the need for comprehensive safety measures at such facilities.

The circumstances surrounding the attack and subsequent euthanization of the lion highlight the importance of stringent safety protocols in wildlife management and the potential risks associated with handling dangerous animals.