Tragic Incident at Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park
A zookeeper named Babaji Daule was killed by a lion at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Nigeria, due to failure in securing the animal’s enclosure. Daules’ death raises serious questions regarding zoo safety practices and regulations in the country, particularly following a similar incident last year.
In a tragic incident at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Ogun State, a zookeeper was fatally mauled by a lion. The victim, 35-year-old Babaji Daule, was attempting to feed the lion when he neglected to secure the enclosure properly. According to police spokesperson Omolola Odutola, the lion inflicted critical injuries to Daule’s neck. Subsequently, park personnel shot the lion to prevent any further harm. It is reported that Baius informed guests about the lion’s feeding routine outside normal hours, which led to the fatal mishap. This event has raised significant concerns regarding the management of wildlife facilities and safety protocols for handling wild animals, as this marks the second similar incident within a year in Nigeria.
The incident involving Babaji Daule underscores the inherent risks associated with wildlife management in zoos, particularly in regions where safety protocols may be inadequately enforced. With the increasing number of such incidents, there is a pressing need to re-evaluate the training and procedures surrounding the care of wild animals. The recent attack at the Obafemi Awolowo University also highlights a growing concern about the safety of zookeepers and the overarching regulations governing wildlife parks in Nigeria.
The unfortunate death of Babaji Daule at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Wildlife Park reflects critical issues concerning safety measures and animal management in zoological institutions. This serves as a catalyst for discussions regarding the regulatory framework surrounding wildlife parks in Nigeria, emphasizing the necessity for stringent protocols to protect both zookeepers and the animals under their care.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
