A devastating incident occurred at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Ogun State, when a lion attacked and killed its handler, 35-year-old Babaji Daule, from Bauchi State.
According to eyewitnesses and police reports, the tragic event unfolded early Saturday morning when Daule, a trained handler, failed to secure the lion’s enclosure before feeding it. This negligence allowed the lion to escape and attack him, resulting in fatal injuries to his neck.
“The handler carelessly neglected to secure the locks and barricade of the lion’s enclosure before approaching the cage to feed the animal,” said SP Omolola Odutola, spokesperson for the Ogun State Police Command. “This negligence led to the lion’s escape and subsequent attack, resulting in the handler’s death.”
Key Details:
– Incident occurred at 7:40 am on September 28, 2024
– Victim: Babaji Daule, 35, from Bauchi State
– Cause of death: Fatal neck injuries from lion attack
– Lion was shot to release its grip on the handler’s body
– Body taken to State Hospital, Ijaye, Abeokuta mortuary
Investigation:
The Ogun State Police Command has launched an investigation into the incident, highlighting the importance of adhering to safety protocols when handling wild animals.
“This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with handling wild animals and the need for strict adherence to safety guidelines,” said Odutola.
The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park has not released an official statement on the matter.
Vanguard.
