Lagos Government Evacuates Lion From Private Residence, Owner To Face Legal Consequences (+photos)

… Observers Called On Government To Warn Individuals Who Keep Dangerous Animals In Their Homes

LEKKI, LAGOS, NIGERIA – Operatives of the Lagos State Task Force successfully, on Monday, June 9, 2025, evacuated a two-year-old lion found in a private home on Muri Okunola Street, Victoria Island, and relocated it to the Lekki Zoo at Omu Resorts.

The rescue operation was prompted by a viral video showing the lion inside a residential property located at No. 229, Muri Okunola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. The video sparked public concern and compelled the state authorities to act swiftly.

According to Chief Superintendent Olayinka Egbeyemi, Chairman of the Lagos State Task Force, the operation was carried out in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and a medical team from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Ibadan, Oyo State.

Dr. Ogunmo Bamidele, who led the veterinary team from the University of Ibadan, had to tranquilise the lion three times before it could be safely sedated and transported to the zoo facility in Lekki.

Task Force investigations revealed that the lion had been imported from Cameroon by an Indian national about two years ago and kept within the residential premises in Victoria Island.

Egbeyemi disclosed that upon receiving the residents’ petition, his officers were deployed to the location and kept a close watch for over 72 hours before the lion was finally removed.

The Task Force Chairman confirmed that the owner of the lion would be prosecuted, warning that no individual is permitted to harbour wild or dangerous animals that pose risks to public safety.

Egbeyemi commended the residents of Victoria Island for their vigilance and quick reporting. He encouraged Lagosians to remain observant and to report any suspicious or unusual activities to relevant authorities for swift intervention.

Also speaking on the matter, Dr. Macaulay Rasheed, Director of Veterinary Services at the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture, cautioned the public against keeping wild animals in private homes. He emphasized the risk of attacks and the spread of zoonotic diseases.

However, observers at the scene expressed concern that many dignitaries across the country are reportedly keeping dangerous animals in their private residences, thereby endangering the lives of citizens living nearby.

They called on the government to issue a stern warning to individuals who keep dangerous animals in their homes.

The observers urged authorities to take decisive steps by establishing strict regulations and ensuring serious punishment for offenders, in order to protect the public from avoidable threats and prevent future incidents.