The spokesperson of the university, Abiodun Olanrewaju, conveyed the sorrowful news in a statement.

According to the statement, Olawuyi, a veterinary technologist in charge of the zoological garden for over a decade, was attacked by a nine-year-old male lion while feeding them in their den.

Despite efforts by other staff members to rescue him, the lion had already inflicted severe injuries, leading to fatal consequences.

The Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, promptly ended an ongoing meeting for an on-the-spot assessment of the incident.

The Acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre reported that all first aid and medical efforts to save Olawuyi’s life were unsuccessful. In response to the tragic event, the aggressive lion has been killed.

The university management has extended condolences to the deceased zookeeper’s family, with a delegation visiting his widow and children. The Vice-Chancellor has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the incident.