Lion Kills 35-Year-Old Handler at Obasanjo Library Zoo in Abeokuta

A tragic incident occurred at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Ogun State, where a lion fatally attacked its handler, 35-year-old Babaji Daule. The incident took place on Saturday as Daule attempted to feed the lion, but he reportedly failed to follow safety protocols.

According to a statement from the park’s management, the incident happened after the official closing hours when Daule, a trained handler, agreed to demonstrate the feeding process of the male lion to a group of guests. Unfortunately, he neglected to properly secure the locks and barricades of the lion’s enclosure.

“The zookeeper, feeling comfortable with the animal, left the safety protection gate open and proceeded to feed the lion,” the statement read. “He was mauled by the animal and died instantly. The lion was immediately put down by park personnel to prevent further mutilation of the body.”

The park management stressed that this demonstration fell outside the park’s standard feeding routine and expressed deep regret over the incident.

Confirming the tragic event, police spokesperson Omolola Odutola told reporters that the lion inflicted fatal injuries on Daule’s neck, which led to his death. “On September 28, 2024, at about 7:40 a.m., the Chief Security Officer of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library informed the police that a 35-year-old man, Babaji Daule from Bauchi State, was killed by a lion at the Zoological Garden in OOPL, Abeokuta,” she stated.

She further explained that Daule’s failure to secure the lion’s enclosure allowed the animal to escape and attack him, leading to the fatal incident. The handler’s body has since been deposited at the Ijaye General Hospital mortuary in Abeokuta.

In response, the park management conveyed their condolences to Daule’s family and reassured the public of their commitment to maintaining the highest levels of safety for visitors, staff, and animals within the park.