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The Oyo State Government has announced the immediate closure of the zoo at Agodi Gardens, Ibadan, following the death of one of the attendants who was attacked by one of the lions in the zoo.
The managing company of the zoo, AM & C, said the attendant, Mr. Hamzat Oyekunle popularly known as Baba Olorunwa, died from injuries sustained from the attack.
Meanwhile, the lions have been evacuated pending further investigations. It was also gathered that the lion which attacked the man has been exterminated.
In a statement at the weekend, the Executive Secretary, Bureau of Investment Promotion (BIP), Mr. Yinka Fatoki said that the incident was particularly surprising and sad as the said Mr. Oyekunle had fed the lion for over five years and was known to have had a very good relationship with all the animals in the zoo.
Meanwhile, government representatives have visited the family to commiserate with them over the demise of Mr. Oyekunle.