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A tragic incident occurred on Monday at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Zoological Garden in Ile-Ife, Osun State, as a nine-year-old male lion killed Mr. Olabode Olawuyi, a Veterinary Technologist who had been in charge of the Zoological Garden for over a decade.
The incident happened while Mr. Olawuyi was feeding the wild animals in their den. Despite the efforts of other staff members to rescue him, the lion had already inflicted severe injuries on the victim.
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The Vice Chancellor of the University, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, led the management team for an on-the-spot assessment and ordered a comprehensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the incident.
According to the Acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre, Dr. Tirimisiyu Olatunji, all first aid and medical efforts to save Mr. Olawuyi’s life were unsuccessful.
The entire University community, including management, staff, and students, has been plunged into mourning. In response to the tragic incident, the aggressive lion was immediately euthanized.
Mr. Olawuyi had been caring for the lions since their birth on campus about nine years ago. The University management extended condolences to the deceased’s widow and children, urging them to find solace in God during this difficult time.
