ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA – A zookeeper was fatally mauled by a lion at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park after he allowed visitors into the enclosure past closing hours, officials confirmed.
Babaji Daule, a 35-year-old experienced lion handler, suffered a deadly bite to the neck on Saturday while feeding the lion. Despite the zoo being closed, Daule had permitted guests entry to watch the feeding, according to the park’s management.
The management explained that Daule, confident in his familiarity with the lion, left the protective gate open. “He was mauled by the animal and died on the spot,” they said in a statement. To prevent further harm, the lion was subsequently shot.
Highlighting that the incident occurred outside of the park’s standard feeding procedure, the park stressed the importance of safety protocols. It remains unclear whether Daule had official clearance to bring guests into the enclosure after hours.
Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola commented on the negligence involved, stating that the zookeeper “carelessly neglected to secure the locks and barricade the lion’s enclosure” prior to feeding the animal. This lapse allowed the lion to attack and ultimately kill Daule.
Following the incident, the park expressed sincere condolences to Daule’s family and reassured the public of its ongoing commitment to safety for both its staff and visitors.