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Unending Search for a Common Ground: Understanding the Dynamics of Human and Wildlife Conflict
Unending Search for a Common Ground: Understanding the Dynamics of Human and Wildlife Conflict
By: Bright Olunusi
The term “wild” implies creatures untouched by the direct influence of humanity, preserving their instincts and behaviors. On the other hand, zoological gardens serve as ex-situ conservation sites, showcasing these magnificent animals to the public, albeit in a tamed and controlled environment. Families flock to zoos for leisure and education, seeking to witness the wonders of nature up close. One of the questions bothering the minds of tourists and non-experts from the field is, are these wild animals truly domesticated?
While years of captivity may temper their ferocity to some extent, labeling them as pets would be a grave misjudgment. Instances abound where wild animals, including lions, have lashed out at unsuspecting visitors, reminding us of the untamed essence that lies beneath their captive facade. Such encounters often end in tragedy, as evidenced by the recent incident at the zoological garden of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife.
Without prejudice to the university’s ongoing inquiry into the remote cause of the death of Mr. Olabode Olawuyi, a veterinary technician in the zoological garden of the institution, whom the employer claimed had been tendering the nine-year-old lion from birth. Consider the plight of the zookeeper who, for close to a decade, tended to a lion under the mistaken belief of familiarity and safety. Tragedy often struck when zoo users or the attendants ignored the established protocols for handling wild animals. This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers posed by human-wildlife interactions within captive settings.
Indeed, human-wildlife conflicts manifest in various forms, ranging from loss of life and property to the transmission of diseases. The OAU Ife Zoo incident epitomizes this perilous nexus, underscoring the need for stringent safety measures and heightened awareness among zoo personnel and visitors alike. There are documented instances of wild animals attacking their caregivers, tourists, or those who cross their paths in their wild moments. For instance, in 2017, a harrowing incident unfolded at the Agodi Zoological Gardens when a lion managed to escape from its enclosure, leading to the devastating loss of a zoo curator’s life. This incident led to the temporary closure of the facility by the Oyo state government as a precautionary measure. In a similar vein, a tragic event unfolded in Texas in 2010 when a man was fatally kicked by his pet deer while trying to feed it, necessitating the deer’s euthanization. In 2011, in Indonesia, seven dogs, starved for two weeks, fatally attacked their owner upon his return. In 2012, a horrifying incident occurred at the Pittsburgh Zoo when a toddler fell into an African-painted dog enclosure and was fatally attacked.
To mitigate such human-wildlife conflict (HWC), especially in conservation areas, several safety precautions must be adhered to. Visitors should supervise their children closely to prevent them from wandering off and should refrain from leaning over cages or attempting to view animals from unsafe distances. It is crucial not to touch or feed the animals and to maintain a safe distance from enclosures. Proper sanitation practices, including thorough handwashing after visits, are essential to prevent the transmission of diseases.
Furthermore, zookeepers must exercise caution. They should avoid becoming overly familiar with the animals and must ensure that enclosures and cages are securely locked before and after feeding times. Regular inspections should be conducted to identify and address any structural weaknesses or faults in facilities.
In conclusion, as a wildlife conservationist who has witnessed firsthand the delicate balance between human presence and animal instincts, I implore greater vigilance and respect for the wild within captive environments. Only through fostering a deeper understanding of wildlife behavior and implementing robust safety protocols can we mitigate the risks inherent in our coexistence with these magnificent creatures.
Bright Olunusi
Boston University, Massachusetts, USA.
brightolunusi@gmail.com
Unending Search for a Common Ground: Understanding the Dynamics of Human and Wildlife Conflict
SOJA Condemns Alleged Abduction of Teachers, Students in Oyo, Demands Urgent Rescue Efforts
By: Michael Mike
A human rights organisation, Speak Out for Justice Advocacy Ltd./Gte. (SOJA), has condemned the reported abduction of teachers and students in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident and the alleged killing of a teacher, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, as “a case too many.”
In a statement issued on Thursday, the group expressed deep concern over reports that armed attackers abducted teachers and students from schools within the council area around May 15, 2026, while Mr. Oyedokun, a Mathematics teacher at Community High School, Ahoro-Esiele, was reportedly killed during the incident.
The organisation said several victims were still believed to be in captivity awaiting rescue.
SOJA, led by its Founder and Executive Director, Hameed Ajibola Jimoh, commiserated with the affected families and communities, warning that repeated attacks on schools and civilians across parts of the country were becoming alarming.
According to the advocacy group, the incident, if confirmed, raises serious constitutional and human rights concerns under both Nigerian law and international treaties to which Nigeria is a signatory.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, SOJA stressed that “the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” while Sections 33, 34 and 35 guarantee the rights to life, dignity and personal liberty.
The group also referenced Nigeria’s obligations under several international and regional legal frameworks, including the United Nations-backed International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC).
SOJA argued that the obligations imposed by these instruments go beyond symbolic commitments, requiring authorities to take practical and preventive steps to protect lives, especially those of vulnerable groups such as school children and teachers.
“The implication of these obligations in the present circumstances is that government responsibility extends beyond merely reacting after tragic events occur,” the statement said.
The organisation acknowledged reports that security agencies had intensified rescue operations and investigations, but maintained that recurring attacks on schools demanded more decisive and proactive measures.
“This is a case too many,” the statement added.
SOJA therefore called for the immediate intensification of lawful rescue efforts for those still in captivity, a thorough investigation into the incident, prosecution of perpetrators, strengthened security around schools and vulnerable communities, and adequate support for affected victims and families.
The group further urged the government to undertake a comprehensive review of strategies aimed at preventing future attacks on educational institutions.
“Teachers should not become targets. Schools should not become zones of fear. Children should not bear the burden of insecurity,” the organisation stated.
SOJA Condemns Alleged Abduction of Teachers, Students in Oyo, Demands Urgent Rescue Efforts
Troops recover suspected stolen motorcycle in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 6, Operation Enduring Peace have recovered a suspected stolen motorcycle following a pursuit of suspected motorcycle snatchers in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 6:30 p.m. on May 21 along the Bachi-Banghai road after troops received reports on the activities of suspected motorcycle snatchers in the area.
The sources said the troops immediately mobilised and pursued the suspects, who abandoned the motorcycle and fled upon sighting the security personnel.
According to the sources, the recovered motorcycle has been secured, while efforts were ongoing to identify the rightful owner and apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The military said the operation formed part of sustained efforts to combat criminal activities and enhance security across Plateau.
Troops recover suspected stolen motorcycle in Plateau
Troops launch rescue operation after abduction in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Sector 1, Operation Enduring Peace have launched a rescue operation following the abduction of a resident in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau.
Security sources disclosed that the incident occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on May 21 when gunmen reportedly abducted Mr Eze Emeka from his residence at Agingi village.
The sources said troops swiftly responded to the distress report and commenced rescue operations in collaboration with other security agencies.
According to the sources, efforts were ongoing to track down the kidnappers and secure the safe release of the victim.
The military assured residents that security forces were intensifying operations to curb criminal activities in the area.
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