A tragic incident occurred yesterday at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, as a trained lion handler lost his life after a lion attacked him. The victim, 35-year-old Babaji Daule, a native of Bauchi State, was fatally injured while feeding the animal at the library’s zoological garden.
According to reports, the incident took place on the morning of September 28, 2024, when Babaji neglected to properly secure the locks of the lion’s enclosure before approaching the cage. This failure allowed the lion to escape, leading to the tragic attack. Babaji sustained severe injuries to his neck, which ultimately led to his death.
The Chief Security Officer at the OOPL reported the incident to the divisional police officer in charge, who promptly responded alongside other security personnel. The police confirmed that the lion was shot to release its grip on the handler, but Babaji succumbed to his injuries before further medical help could be provided. His body was subsequently taken to the mortuary at Ijaye General Hospital in Abeokuta.
The Area Commander Metro confirmed the unfortunate incident and indicated that an investigation is ongoing to determine the exact circumstances of the attack. Authorities are also reviewing safety protocols at the zoo to prevent future occurrences.
The tragic loss has sent shockwaves throughout the local community, and the OOPL management expressed their deepest condolences to the family of the deceased.
This incident underscores the inherent risks involved in handling wild animals, even by trained professionals, and raises concerns about safety measures in place at wildlife facilities across the country.
