*Lion euthanized as VC orders comprehensive investigations into the immediate and remote causes of incident
By; BAYO AKAMO, Ibadan
Tragedy struck at the Obafemi Awolowo University, (OAU), Ile Ife as one of the lions at the institution zoological garden killed a Veterinary Technologist, in charge of the Zoological garden .
Already, the institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the incident.
Also, sources said the aggressive Lion has been euthanized.
According to a statement by the University Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olarewaju, the Veterinary Technologist identified as Mr Olabode Olawuyi was attacked on Monday afternoon, by a 9 – year old male lion when he was feeding them in their den.
The statement stressed that all efforts by other members of staff at the scene of the incident to rescue Mr Olawuyi failed as the lion had already caused severe fatalities.
It was learnt that upon hearing the news about the lion’s attack on Mr Olawuyi, the management team of the University, led by the Vice Chancellor, abruptly ended an ongoing meeting for an on the spot assessment
The institution’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire led the management team to the University Health centre where the
Veterinary Technologist was rushed to for medical attention
It was gathered that the Vice Chancellor was informed, on arrival, by the acting Director of the University Health and Medical Centre Dr. Tirimisiyu Olatunji, that all first aid and medical efforts to save the life of the victim proved abortive.
The university management has sent a delegation to the widow and children of the deceased, imploring them to take solace in God who gives life and also has the power to take life.
New Nigerian gathered that the late Mr Olawuyi has been taking care of the lions since they were born on campus about nine years ago.
