A first-year student of the Department of Surveying and Geoinformatics at the Federal University of Technology Akure, identified as Favour Olaniyi, has died after allegedly consuming a poisonous substance suspected to be an insecticide.
The deceased was found lifeless near his off-campus residence on Saturday by some of his colleagues, who alleged that he took his own life.
The motive behind the incident, however, could not be immediately ascertained as of the time of filing this report.
Confirming the incident, the university, in a statement issued by its Director of Corporate Communication and Protocol, Adegbenro Adebanjo, expressed deep sadness over the death of the student but did not officially describe the case as suicide.
According to the statement, the institution said its security unit alerted the police immediately the incident was reported, while medical personnel and security operatives coordinated the evacuation of the body to the morgue.
“The parents of the student have since been informed about the unfortunate development,” the statement added.
Adebanjo further disclosed that the police had commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death, noting that the university was cooperating fully with security agencies handling the case.
He also revealed that the institution had begun providing counselling support for students affected by the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his parents and family members at this very difficult time,” the statement read.
The university reiterated the readiness of its Student Affairs Division to assist students facing emotional or personal challenges, urging them to seek counselling and guidance when necessary.
Meanwhile, the incident has triggered renewed concerns among students and residents over mental health challenges, emotional distress and academic pressure in tertiary institutions, with calls for stronger awareness campaigns and improved support systems for students.
