Oluwaseyi Adebayo, a student at the Federal University of Technology Minna, Niger State, passed away after slipping into a fishpond while out on a walk with his friends.
The Department of Animal Production at the University’s 400-level student reportedly went bike hiking on August 10 with a few of his colleagues when he slipped off a mountaintop and fell into a fish pond, where he perished.
According to information obtained by reporters the community members in question would not turn up the student’s body to the university administration until certain customs were followed in order to keep his seven other classmates from suffering a similar fate.
The FUT authority allegedly hesitated to comply with the request to perform the ceremony until several concerned citizens saved the situation by paying the appropriate fee and bringing a white ram for the sacrifice.
When contacted, Lydia Legbo, the university’s spokesperson, denied knowledge of the occurrence, stating that the university was unaware of the development.
“The University is not aware of any such incident and cannot comment on it,” according to Legbo.
Meanwhile, the Student Union Government of the university, while acknowledging the tragedy in a statement titled “Condolence Message”
“We regret to inform you of the passing of Oluwaseyi David, a 400 Level student from the Department of Animal Production (SAAT), who passed away earlier today while trekking with his fellow 400 level students in the GK Off-campus area close to the Talba Dam”.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved. May Oluwaseyi David’s sweet spirit rest in complete peace, and may God offer them the strength to endure this irreplaceable loss.
“The University Management has warned Students to avoid any form of Outdoor Events near waterways and also swimming in water bodies of undefined depth,” the note, which was signed by Moshood Olamide, the SUG Public Relations Officer at the university, continued.
When reporters called Wasiu Abiodun, spokesman for the Niger State Police Command, on Friday, he stated that the situation had not been reported to the police.
Abiodun responded, “We are not aware of the incident, and it was not reported to the police.”
Bottom Line
The university’s initial denial of knowledge about the incident is concerning. It reflects a possible communication gap between the institution, the community, and the students.
This disconnect can hinder swift responses to emergencies and create confusion during critical moments.
