Tragedy hit the walls of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife as a 9 year old male lion killed a zookeeper while feeding the wildcats in their den at the Zoological garden of the University.
A statement released by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Abiodun Olarewaju stated that that the deceased, Mr. Olawuyi, a Veterinary Technologist, who has been in charge of the Zoological garden for over a decade was attacked on Monday afternoon, Monday, 19th February 2024.
The other staff members around did all within their power to rescue the man but the wild cat had already caused severe fatalities.
On hearing the sad news, the management team, led by the Vice Chancellor abruptly ended an ongoing meeting for an on the spot assessment. The Vice Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon BAMIRE was informed by the Acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre, Dr. Tirimisiyu Olatunji, that all first aid and medical efforts to save the life of the victim proved abortive.
Saddened by this tragic event, the aggressive lion had been euthanized.
The University management has sent a delegation team to the widow and children of the deceased, imploring them to take solace in God who gives life and also have the power to take life.
