Tragic Death of Zookeeper at Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park

A zookeeper named Babaji Daule was tragically killed by a lion at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Nigeria due to a failure to secure the animal’s enclosure. This incident raises serious concerns about wildlife safety regulations in the country as it marks the second fatal lion attack on a zookeeper within a year.

In a tragic incident at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Nigeria, a 35-year-old zookeeper named Babaji Daule lost his life after being mauled by a lion. The attack occurred as Mr. Daule, a trained lion handler, neglected to secure the enclosure’s locks while attempting to feed the animal. According to police spokesperson Omolola Odutola, the lion inflicted severe injuries to Mr. Daule’s neck before it was subsequently shot to prevent further harm. This incident took place after hours, while Mr. Daule was escorting guests to observe the lion’s feeding routine. Following the attack, a statement from the library indicated that the zookeeper had left the safety gate open out of a misplaced sense of comfort, which ultimately led to his tragic demise. This unfortunate event marks the second fatal lion attack on zookeepers in southwestern Nigeria within a year, raising significant concerns regarding wildlife management and safety regulations in the country.

This incident at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park highlights the pressing issue of safety protocols in wildlife handling. Zookeepers are expected to implement stringent safety measures to protect themselves and the animals they manage. The death of Babaji Daule not only brings to light the dangers inherent in the profession but also reinforces the need for updated regulations and training for those involved in wildlife care. Such occurrences are particularly alarming in Nigeria, where there has been a recent history of similar fatal attacks on zookeepers, underscoring the importance of addressing safety standards in the management of captive wildlife.

In summary, the tragic death of zookeeper Babaji Daule emphasizes the critical need for stringent safety measures and proper management protocols in wildlife facilities. The recurring nature of similar incidents poses serious questions about the regulations governing the handling of wild animals in Nigeria. It is imperative that authorities take urgent action to reassess and enhance security standards in order to prevent future tragedies.

Original Source: www.bbc.com