Zookeeper killed by lion in front of visitors at Nigerian zoo
Tragic lion attack at Nigerian zoo raises safety concerns
A zookeeper lost his life after a lion attacked him in front of shocked visitors at a zoo. Babaji Daule, a seasoned lion handler at the Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Nigeria, was showing a group of visitors the lion’s feeding routine on Saturday evening, 28th September, when the tragedy occurred.
The 35-year-old, during the demonstration, was fatally mauled by the lion. Police spokesperson Omolala Odutola confirmed the lion caused severe injuries to Babaji’s neck. Officers had to shoot the lion to free him. The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) stated that the animal was immediately put down to prevent further mutilation.
It was revealed in the statement that Babaji had left a safety gate open while feeding the lion because he felt comfortable around it. The statement read: “The zookeeper, apparently, feeling comfortable with the animal, left the safety protection gate open and proceeded to feed the animal. He was mauled by the animal and died on the spot.”
Lion k!lled handler at Obasanjo library’s zoo in Ogun.
A lion at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital has killed its handler, Babaji Daule in the early hours of Saturday. NJ pic.twitter.com/mQHh4KsbTf
— Lifeissues11 (@AGINAS) September 29, 2024
The OOPL clarified that this incident was outside the park’s standard feeding routine. The attack has raised concerns about the regulation of zoos that house dangerous animals.
The park’s website highlights its collection, including lions, hyenas, a Marabou Stork, pythons, and various bird species. The zoo, which houses over 140 indigenous and exotic animals, aims to promote wildlife conservation, educate the public, and boost tourism.
A police statement confirmed the tragic event, noting that on 28th September 2024, at around 7:40 p.m. local time, the Chief Security Officer of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library reported the incident involving Babaji Daule, a trained lion handler from Bauchi State. Further comments from OOPL are awaited.
What Other Media Are Saying
- Times of India reports on a tragic incident where Babaji Daule, a 35-year-old zookeeper, was fatally mauled by a lion in Nigeria after leaving the protective gate open, highlighting poor zoo safety regulations.(read more)
- N.Y. Post reports on a tragic incident where a 35-year-old zookeeper was mauled to death by a lion after hours, highlighting safety protocols and the zoo’s response.(read more)
- Daily Star reports on the tragic death of zookeeper Babaji Daule, mauled by a lion at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Nigeria, highlighting safety concerns and proper protocol lapses.(read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happened to the zookeeper at the Presidential Library Wildlife Park?
The zookeeper was mauled to death by a lion during a feeding demonstration.
Who was the zookeeper that got attacked by the lion?
The zookeeper was Babaji Daule, a 35-year-old experienced lion handler.
Why did the lion attack the zookeeper?
The zookeeper left a safety protection gate open, feeling comfortable around the lion.
What actions were taken after the lion attacked the zookeeper?
Officers shot the lion to release its grip and prevent further mutilation of the body.
What concerns have arisen from this incident?
The attack has raised concerns about the regulation of zoos handling dangerous animals.
