Colleagues of OAU zookeeper killed by lion hold memorial service for him

Colleagues of the late Olabode Olawuyi, a Veterinary Technologist in charge of the Obafemi Awolowo University’s zoological park in Ile-Ife, Osun State, who was killed by a lion in the garden, held a memorial service for him on Monday.

Olawuyi was killed by a lion at the zoological garden on Monday, February 19, while attempting to rescue a subordinate who had been attacked by the animal.

Participants in the National Association of Academic Technologists’ memorial service, which was attended by members of the deceased’s family, colleagues, classmates, union leadership on the OAU campus, and university management representatives, recalled Olawuyi’s heroic act.

They urged preventive actions to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Mr. Matthew Oluwaniyi, head of the NAAT, OAU chapter, alleged that despite the deceased’s repeated warnings about the harmful work environment, management and the union failed to act.

Oluwaniyi stated that the deceased dedicated his life to caring for animals in the institution’s zoological garden, adding that “in a moment of unparalleled heroism, Olabode selflessly put his own life on the line to rescue a colleague who had fallen victim to the ferocity of a lion.

“His actions were not merely a fulfillment of duty; they were a testament to the very essence of humanity. With unwavering courage, he stood between danger and his fellow staff members, offering protection at the cost of his own life.

“Olabode’s bravery will forever be etched in our memories, a flame that burns eternal in the hearts of all who knew him. He was more than just an employee; he was the embodiment of dedication, compassion, and selflessness.

“Comrade Olabode, your death also comes with a whole bunch of lessons for us that shall keep unfolding. As a university, we have failed you as a union. We haven’t listened closely enough to your repeated warnings about unsafe work conditions most of the time when you visited the secretariat.

“We haven’t done enough to create the secure environment you deserved. But that ends today. As a united force, we vow: Never again will we allow any member to face such dangers. We will work tirelessly with the university administration, local and international organisations, and regulatory bodies to ensure every institutional resource is harnessed towards creating a safe and secure work environment for all.”