Zookeeper mauled to death by male lion while attempting to rescue female colleague

A committee to investigate the matter will be formed.

A zookeeper, identified as Olabode Olawuyi, was tragically mauled to death by a 9-year-old male lion at the zoological gardens of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, while attempting to rescue a female colleague from the beast.

This was revealed in a statement by Wole Odewumi, the Chairman of the OAU branch of the National Association of Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) on Tuesday.

The chairman also stated that the zoological gardens has been shut down by the institution’s management following the unfortunate incident.

According to Odewumi, who elaborated further, Olawuyi attempted to rescue a female colleague who was attacked by the lion, assuming that the lion would recognise him.
Unfortunately, his action seamed to have infuriated the beast, leading to an attack on him instead.

Olawuyi passed away before he could receive medical assistance after he was freed from the lion’s grip. The woman who was first attacked, however, is currently receiving treatment in the hospital.

In honour of the late zookeeper, a mourning procession was held and the institution’s management met with his family to offer support and assistance.

While the institution has initiated necessary steps to access the situation, the zoo has been officially shut down. Also, a committee would be form to investigate the incident, with representation was Olawuyi’s union.