The lifeless body of a 23-year-old 100-level student of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Favour Olaniyi, has been discovered inside a bush along the North Gate of the institution. The deceased, a male student in the Department of Surveying and Geoinformatics, was found under circumstances that have led to speculation of suicide. An empty bottle of a substance suspected to be a lethal herbicide was allegedly found at the scene along with his body.
Discovery and Immediate Response
Following the discovery, students and residents in the area gathered in groups, trying to comprehend the tragic incident. The Director of Corporate Communication and Protocol at FUTA, Adegbenro Adebanjo, confirmed the incident and expressed the institution’s sadness over the loss of the student. The parents of the deceased have been notified. After the incident was reported to the attention of management, the university’s security team quickly informed the police. Medical officials from the institution and security personnel worked together to move the body to the mortuary.
University Cooperation and Support
Adebanjo emphasised that the university is cooperating with police investigators. Officials from the Students Affairs Division are providing counselling support to students affected by the tragedy. The university is committed to ensuring that those in distress receive the necessary psychological assistance.
Police Investigation Underway
When contacted, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Command, Abayomi Jimoh, stated that an investigation into the incident had begun. He mentioned that there were no visible signs of violence on the deceased’s body when detectives arrived at the scene. Jimoh said: “The body has been taken to the mortuary for preservation and further examination. The investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
Public Appeal for Mental Health Awareness
The Command encourages the public, especially young people, to seek support and counselling during difficult times to avoid actions that could endanger their lives. This tragic event highlights the importance of mental health awareness and the need for accessible support systems within academic institutions.
