Zookeeper dies attempting rescue in lion encounter – NASU chair reports

The zoological garden at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been closed by university authorities following a tragic incident on Monday resulting in the death of veterinary technologist Mr. Olabode Olawuyi, who was attacked by a nine-year-old lion while attempting to rescue a woman also under assault by the animal.

In an interview with The PUNCH on Tuesday, Mr. Wole Odewumi, Chairman of the National Association of Non-Academic Staff of Universities (NASU) at OAU, confirmed the closure of the garden and provided details of the incident.

According to Odewumi, Olawuyi intervened to free a female staff member who was initially attacked by the lion, but his efforts seemingly aggravated the animal, leading to a fatal attack on himself. Despite efforts to save Olawuyi, he succumbed to his injuries before reaching the campus health center. The injured woman is currently receiving treatment.

A mourning procession was held in honor of Olawuyi on Tuesday, with university management meeting with his family to offer condolences and support. Odewumi indicated that the university is taking steps to address the situation, including forming a committee with representation from Olawuyi’s union to investigate the incident. The zoo remains closed to the public, with the management prioritizing safety.

Olawuyi, 59, was scheduled to retire in 2025, according to his Curriculum Vitae. The university, through its Public Relations Officer Abiodun Olanrewaju, expressed condolences and confirmed that staff at the scene attempted to rescue Olawuyi, but were unable to due to the lion’s aggression.

A security operative later euthanized the lion, as seen in video footage, while Olawuyi’s remains were tragically laid at the garden’s entrance, a stark reminder of the dangers faced in wildlife management.