Tragedy has enveloped the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) in Ile-Ife, Osun State, following the sudden and shocking death of a young medical student. Timilehin Adetoye Toromade, an 18-year-old in Part Three of the Medicine and Surgery programme, reportedly passed away in his sleep during the early hours of January 6, 2026.
Details of the Tragic Incident
The university authorities confirmed the devastating news in an official statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Mr Abiodun Olarewaju. According to the statement, the student, with matriculation number CLI/2022/133, was discovered in his hostel room. Preliminary accounts suggest the incident occurred after 2:00 a.m., as one of his roommates indicated he was last seen alive around that time.
The circumstances surrounding the cause of death remain unclear and are under investigation. The university management stated it is collaborating with relevant authorities to fully understand what happened, following established medical procedures.
University Leadership Expresses Profound Grief
In the emotional statement, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, conveyed the collective sorrow of the entire university community. He extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the Visitor, the University Council, Senate, staff, and students to the bereaved family, friends, and classmates of the deceased.
"The loss of a young life filled with promise, purpose and potential is a tragedy that words alone cannot adequately capture," the statement read. It highlighted the profound irony and sadness of a student, who had embraced the rigorous training of medicine with the dream of healing others, passing away so unexpectedly.
Community Support and Call for Calm
In response to the traumatic event, the university management has announced it is putting appropriate support measures in place to assist students and staff members emotionally affected by the loss. The institution has called for calm, compassion, and solidarity within the community.
The statement urged students, staff, alumni, and friends of the Great Ife community to uphold the values of empathy for which the university is known. It concluded with a prayer, committing the soul of the departed student to God and asking for strength for his family and all those grieving this irreparable loss.
The sudden death of Timilehin Toromade has left a significant void on campus, prompting an outpouring of grief and reflection on the fragility of life within the academic community.
