Tragedy Strikes as University of Ibadan Medical Student Dies After Ingesting Insecticide
A 200-level medical student at the University of Ibadan, Ifeoluwa Wisdom Akinmade, has tragically died after consuming an insecticide identified as Sniper. The incident occurred on Sunday night, March 1, 2026, when Akinmade was found foaming at the mouth on the ground floor of Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall.
According to reports, the deceased admitted to ingesting the toxic substance before losing consciousness. He was initially taken to Jaja Clinic, where he was stabilised with oxygen and intravenous fluids, before being transferred to the University College Hospital's emergency unit and placed on life support.
Parents Suspect Poisoning Amidst Conflicting Accounts
The student's parents have suggested the possibility of poisoning, raising concerns about the circumstances surrounding his death. However, his roommates maintained that Akinmade had confessed to consuming the insecticide, adding that he had recently become withdrawn, rarely attended classes, and avoided calls from his parents.
Funmi Adetuyibi, the UCH Public Relations Officer, confirmed the student's death, stating, "The boy passed away on Sunday evening. The student was brought in based on the report that he consumed Sniper, and the UCH responded accordingly. Sadly, he did not survive."
University Community Mourns and Mental Health Concerns Arise
The UI Medical Students Association announced Akinmade's death in a statement, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of their colleague. An X user, Daniel of Ibadan, claimed that Akinmade took his life due to a low CA score, sparking discussions on mental health support among students.
This incident follows similar tragedies in Nigerian universities, including a 300-level Computer Science student at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University who died linked to a betting loss, and a final-year student at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic who killed himself over a failed relationship. These cases highlight growing calls for enhanced mental health resources and interventions to address pressures faced by students.
Note: If you or someone you know is struggling, seek help from available support services. Your story is not over, and there is hope in every new chapter.
