Tragedy Strikes OAU Campus: Lion Kills Zookeeper, Sparks Panic
Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, was plunged into chaos as a lion reportedly escaped from its enclosure, resulting in the death of a zookeeper and injuries to another staff member.
The deceased, Mr. Olabode Olawuyi, a seasoned Veterinary Technologist responsible for caring for the university’s wildlife, fell victim to the nine-year-old lion while feeding the animals in their den at the zoological garden. Despite efforts from fellow staff to rescue him, the lion inflicted fatal injuries.
The university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, confirmed the tragic incident, noting Olawuyi’s long-standing tenure of over a decade in tending to the lions. The Vice Chancellor, Prof Adebayo Bamire, promptly halted ongoing activities to assess the situation firsthand.
Sadly, all attempts to save Olawuyi’s life proved futile, leading to the euthanization of the aggressive lion. The university management extended condolences to the victim’s family and initiated an investigation into the incident’s causes.
Amidst the shock and grief, fear gripped the university community as rumors spread of the lion being at large. Heightened precautions were taken by students and staff following reports of another staff member being rushed to the campus health center for injuries sustained during the rescue attempt.
As the campus mourns the loss of a dedicated staff member and grapples with the aftermath of the tragic event, concerns for safety and vigilance remain paramount.
