Lion Kills Zookeeper at Obasanjo Presidential Library Zoological Garden

A sad incident unfolded at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) zoological garden in Abeokuta on Saturday, as a male lion fatally attacked a 35-year-old zookeeper, Babaji Duale.

The victim, a trained handler from Bauchi State, was reportedly killed after failing to properly secure the lion’s enclosure before attempting to feed the animal. According to a statement released by the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Omolola Odutola, on Sunday, this lapse in security allowed the lion to escape from its cage and launch a fatal attack.

The police statement noted, “A deadly incident involving a wild animal attack was reported by the Area Commander Metro. On September 28, 2024, at about 7:40 a.m., the Chief Security Officer of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library informed the divisional police officer that a 35-year-old man, Babaji Duale, who was a trained handler of a male lion, lost his life due to negligence in securing the lion’s enclosure.”

The lion attacked Duale, biting his neck, which resulted in his death. His body was later transported to the Ijaye General Hospital mortuary. The statement also confirmed that the wild lion was shot by authorities in order to free the victim from its grip.