Tragedy at Obasanjo Presidential Library as lion kills man

A devastating incident occurred at the Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Sunday, September 29, 2024, when a lion attacked and killed its keeper, Mr. Babaji Daule.

The expansive facility is owned by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Nigeria’s former military Head of State and civilian President.

*The Incident

According to information made available to Diaspora Digital Media, the trained handler carelessly neglected to secure the lion’s enclosure before feeding it, allowing the animal to escape and attack.

The Chief Security Officer of the library reported the incident at 7:40 am, and the victim’s body was later removed and taken to the mortuary at Ijaye General Hospital.

The lion was shot to release its grip on the handler.

*Eyewitness Accounts

“I was nearby when I heard the roar and screams,” said an eyewitness, Mrs Goodness Alabi. “It was horrific. The lion had the keeper’s neck in its jaws. We tried to intervene, but it was too late.”

*Investigation

The Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident. “We are reviewing the circumstances surrounding the attack,” said spokesperson Omolola Odutola. “We will ensure that measures are taken to prevent such incidents in the future.”

*Zoo Safety Protocols

Experts emphasize that lions are naturally aggressive and should be treated with caution.

“Zookeepers must follow strict safety protocols when handling wild animals,” said Dr. Temitope Ogunniyi, a wildlife expert.

“This incident highlights the importance of adhering to guidelines and ensuring enclosures are secure.”

*Similar Incidents

This is not the first time a lion has attacked a keeper in Nigeria.

Lion attacks in Nigeria have resulted in significant harm and loss of life over the years.

One of the earliest recorded incidents was in 1977, when a lion escaped from the University of Ibadan Zoo and killed a passerby.

Since then, there have been several other reported incidents, including a lion attack on a zookeeper at the National Zoo in Abuja in 1985, and the killing of a 3-year-old child by a lioness at the Port Harcourt Zoo in 2001.

More recently, a lion killed a veterinary technologist at Obafemi Awolowo University Zoo in Ile-Ife in 2019.

The Oyo state government took swift action after the 2019 incident, shutting down the Agodi Zoo in Ibadan to safeguard the lives of patrons.

Additionally, the tragic story of Prophet Abodunrin, was killed by lions at the University of Ibadan zoo in 1991 while attempting to replicate the biblical story of Daniel in the lion’s den.

*Reactions

The incident has sparked conversations about zoo safety and the importance of adhering to protocols when handling wild animals. “This tragedy could have been prevented,” said animal rights activist, Mrs. Funmi Adeyemo. “We urge zoos to prioritize safety and ensure that handlers receive proper training.”

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