Nigerian Veterinary Technologist killed by Lion on retirement eve
By Charity Nginyu
A Nigerian veteran zookeeper, Mr. Olabode Olawuyi met a fatal end after being attacked by a Lion he had nurtured for years, just on the eve of his retirement. The dedicated veterinary technologist at Obafemi Awolowo University was born on December 22, 1965, and would have exited service in 2025.
Reports say he was tragically attacked while trying to rescue a woman from the Lion, marking a devastating conclusion to his long and distinguished career.
Olawuyi, who had devoted more than a decade of his life to overseeing the Zoological Garden at the university, had been responsible for the welfare of the Lions since their birth on campus approximately nine years back.
Confirming the harrowing incident, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. “Mr. Olawuyi has been taking care of the lions since they were born on campus about 9 years ago, but, tragically, the male lion killed the man who had been feeding them,” Olarewaju stated.
Despite efforts by fellow staff members to rescue Olawuyi from the ferocious animal’s grip, the injuries sustained were irreparable. The university was left mourning the untimely demise of a beloved colleague and dedicated professional.
In response to the tragic occurrence, the decision was made to euthanize the Lion responsible for the fatal attack, a measure taken to ensure the safety of both staff and visitors to the Zoological Garden.
