Lion Kills OAU Veterinary Worker During Feeding
A tragic incident unfolded at the Zoological Garden of the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, as a lion attacked and killed Mr. Olabode Olawuyi, a veteran veterinary worker on campus.
According to a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, the fatal encounter occurred while Olawuyi was carrying out his duties of feeding the animals within their den.
Despite efforts from other staff members who rushed to the scene, the lion had already inflicted severe injuries on Olawuyi, leading to his untimely demise.
“The management, staff, students, and the entire campus of the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, have been thrown into mourning following the untimely death of Mr. Olabode Olawuyi,” the statement expressed.Further details revealed that upon receiving the distressing news, the university’s management team, led by Vice-Chancellor Prof Simeon Bamire, immediately halted their meeting to assess the situation firsthand.Dr.
Tirimisiyu Olatunji, the acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre, informed Bamire upon arrival that despite all efforts, medical intervention could not save Olawuyi’s life.In response to the tragedy, the aggressive lion responsible for the attack was euthanized. It was noted that Olawuyi had cared for the lions since their birth on campus approximately nine years ago, making the incident even more poignant.In a gesture of condolence, the university dispatched a delegation to visit Olawuyi’s widow and children, urging them to find solace in the divine amidst their grief.
Meanwhile, Vice-Chancellor Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, aiming to determine both immediate and underlying causes.Credit: Punch News