Olabode Olawuyi, a dedicated veterinary nurse, was fatally attacked by a lion he had cared for over the span of nine years at the Obafemi Awolowo University Zoo Garden.
The university’s spokesperson, Abiodun Olanrewaju, confirmed the heartbreaking news, stating that Olabode Olawuyi was deeply wounded and killed by the nine-year-old lion on Monday afternoon. Olawuyi had been responsible for the well-being of the lion and overseeing the zoo garden for almost a decade before his untimely demise.
Despite the efforts of other staff members present at the scene to help him when the veteran nurse was attacked by the lion, the wild cat had inflicted severe injuries before they could intervene, Mr Olanrewaju explained.
The university has taken swift action in response to the tragedy, sending a delegation to inform Olawuyi’s family of his demise. Vice-Chancellor Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire was briefed upon arrival about the futile attempts to save Olawuyi’s life.
In a gesture of support and condolence, the university management has reached out to the deceased’s family and children, urging them to find solace and peace in the difficult time.