The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the tragic death of a 35-year-old zoo worker, Babaji Daule, who was killed by a lion at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta.
In a statement released on Sunday, the police spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, revealed that the incident occurred on Saturday when the handler, a native of Bauchi State, reportedly failed to secure the locks and barricades of the lion’s enclosure before attempting to feed the animal.
The unsecured enclosure allowed the lion to escape and attack Daule, causing fatal injuries to his neck. The victim was immediately removed from the scene and taken to the mortuary at Ijaye General Hospital.
Authorities confirmed that the wild lion was shot to release its grip on the handler during the incident.
Further details are expected to be provided as investigations continue.