Tourists at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Nigeria, witnessed a tragic incident as a zookeeper was fatally attacked by a lion. Babaji Daule, 35, the lion handler, was showcasing the big cat’s feeding routine on September 28, 2024, when the dreadful event occurred.
Despite feeling at ease with the lion, Daule made a critical error by leaving the safety gate open. Subsequently, the lion launched a fatal assault on him, causing severe neck injuries that led to his immediate death. Prompt action by park staff was taken to euthanize the animal to prevent further harm as shocked onlookers watched the horrifying scene unfold in the wildlife section of the library complex.
Authorities are investigating whether Daule had authorization to bring guests into the enclosure, which should have been closed. Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola highlighted Daule’s negligence in failing to secure the enclosure properly before approaching the lion for feeding, ultimately resulting in the tragic outcome.
The management of the park clarified that the attack occurred outside the approved feeding schedule and confirmed that Daule’s body was transferred to the local mortuary. Expressing condolences to Daule’s family, the OOPL emphasized the paramount importance of ensuring the safety of staff, visitors, and animals within the premises.
In a separate incident months later, a German businessman and philanthropist, Bernd Kebbel, 59, lost his life to a lioness during a safari excursion in Namibia. While camping near the Hoanib River with his wife and friends on May 30, 2025, Kebbel was attacked by the lioness when he left his tent to use the restroom. Despite efforts to scare off the animal, Kebbel succumbed to his injuries.
The Ministry of Environment and Tourism confirmed the euthanization of the lioness involved in the attack. Kebbel, the former owner of the Offroad Centre, specializing in off-road vehicle supplies, tragically met his demise in the unexpected lioness encounter.