Mumbai, October 1: A zookeeper in southwestern Nigeria has been tragically mauled to death by a lion after failing to secure the locks on its enclosure while attempting to feed it. The 35-year-old victim worked at the Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Ogun state, owned by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The victim, identified as Babaji Daule, a trained lion handler, was mauled to death by the lion. To prevent further mutilation of his body, park personnel immediately put down the animal. This tragic incident comes less than a year after another zookeeper was killed by a lion at Obafemi Awolowo University, also located in southwestern Nigeria. Lion Attack in Nigeria: Zookeeper Mauled to Death by Big Cat He Had Raised Since Birth

According to local police spokesperson Omolola Odutola, the lion inflicted fatal injuries to the man's neck, prompting authorities to shoot the animal to release its grip on the handler. In a statement from the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, it was revealed that the zookeeper had taken some guests to witness the lion's feeding routine after hours on Saturday evening. Feeling at ease with the animal, the zookeeper left the safety gate open while feeding it, resulting in the lion mauling him to death on the spot. Man Gets Mauled by Two Lions, Left Bloodied After Trying To Click Pictures Near the Cage, Disturbing Video Goes Viral (Graphic Warning).

The incident has sparked concerns, with many questioning the country's regulations and oversight of zoos, as well as the proper handling and safety protocols for managing wild animals.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 01, 2024 10:13 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).