By Capital Watch Media
Staff members of Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, have paid tribute to the late Olabode Olawuyi, a veterinary technologist who was killed by a lion in the university zoo.
Olawuyi lost his life on 19 February 2024 while attempting to rescue a junior colleague who was being attacked by the lion during feeding.
To mark the first anniversary of his tragic death, the National Association of Academic Technologists, NAAT, organised a one-day workshop titled “Workplace Safety Awareness” at the Pit Theatre, Department of Dramatic Arts.
Speaking at the event, NAAT National President, Ibeji Nwokoma, described Olawuyi as a hero who sacrificed his life for another.
“I want to commend the OAU NAAT executives for organising this workshop. I also advocate that the zoo should be named after the late Mr. Olawuyi. He was a man of virtue and our martyr,” Nwokoma said.
The event focused on the importance of workplace safety, with speakers calling for improved policies to prevent similar incidents.
OAU NAAT Chairman, Matthew Oluwaniyi, expressed disappointment that an official investigation report into Olawuyi’s death had not been released a year after the incident.
“One year ago, we lost a dedicated professional, a colleague, and a comrade whose courage and sense of duty went beyond mere responsibility. Comrade Olawuyi gave his life to save another,” Oluwaniyi stated.
He urged the university management to prioritise the safety of staff members working in hazardous environments.
“This workshop is a reminder that safety is not just a conversation but a responsibility. We must ensure that the lessons from Comrade Olawuyi’s sacrifice lead to improved policies and a safer workplace,” he added.
Colleagues and attendees observed a moment of silence in honour of Olawuyi, reaffirming their commitment to advocating for better workplace protections.
The university management has yet to respond to the calls for the zoo to be renamed after Olawuyi or provide an update on the official investigation into his death.
