IMSU Final Year Student Mourns 20-Year-Old Coursemate Who Died on New Year's Day
A final year student at Imo State University has shared a poignant tribute to her 20-year-old coursemate, Ogbu Richard, who tragically passed away on New Year's Day 2026, just a few months before their scheduled graduation. The emotional post, shared on TikTok, has moved many to tears and sparked widespread reactions across social media platforms.
Heartbreaking Last Conversation Revealed
In a TikTok video posted by user @pearlshakesandfragrance, the female student revealed the final conversation she had with Richard before his untimely death. She recounted how their last interaction occurred when she asked him why he had come to school on a particular day, as not all coursemates had resumed classes at that time.
"Our last conversation was when I asked you why you came to school that day because last year not all of our coursemates decided to resume, just a few of us. I was surprised you came to school and you answered 'light no dey house and you were bored so decided to come to school' of which we laughed and said goodbye after the lectures for that day, not knowing it would be the last," she wrote in her emotional tribute.
Emotional Tribute and Obituary Details
The student shared Richard's obituary alongside her tribute, which confirmed his passing on January 1, 2026, and included details about his burial arrangements. In her heartfelt message, she expressed the collective grief of their classmates, noting how they had been looking forward to celebrating their graduation together in just a few months.
"Goodbye Richard, may the good Lord accept your soul till we meet again and part no more. Just few months for us to become graduates so people will come and write congratulations and celebrate our victory, you are gone. Your coursemates are crying for you, come back because it's still like a dream to us," she continued in her tribute, referring to Richard by his nickname "Prince Pito of Ancient Kingdom" among classmates.
Social Media Reactions Pour In
The tragic story has generated numerous emotional responses from social media users who expressed their condolences and shared their own reflections on mortality and academic journeys.
FRANK FABRICS ABA commented: "400 level, God have mercy on us. We know we will die but let's reach our 90's and 100. May his soul find peace in the sight of God, and may the perpetual light continue to shine upon you. Stranger, go well."
Bishop Ebenezer added: "It's so hard to believe that Richard is gone just like that. It's well, may his soul find eternal rest in Christ. Amen."
Another user, Mkpurunma, revealed a personal connection: "My daughter's secondary school classmate at Madonna!! So hard to write RIP to you Richard. May your soul rest in peace. Amen."
Pinky cosmetics and skincare offered prayers: "May his gentle soul rest in peace, amen. What a world. Father Lord, please in the journey of academic may we never be brought home dead, amen."
Broader Context of Academic Community Loss
This tragic incident highlights the vulnerability of young students in Nigerian universities and the emotional impact such losses have on academic communities. The student's decision to share her grief publicly has created a space for collective mourning and reflection on the preciousness of life, particularly among those approaching significant milestones like graduation.
The story has resonated deeply with many who understand the pressures and aspirations of final year university students in Nigeria, making it a poignant reminder of how quickly circumstances can change and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones and colleagues.
