The Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) is mourning the tragic death of a 100-level student, Favour Olaniyi, whose lifeless body was discovered in a bush near the North Gate of the institution.
The 23-year-old male student, enrolled in the Department of Surveying and Geoinformatics, was found under circumstances that have sparked speculation of suicide. An empty bottle suspected to have contained a lethal herbicide was reportedly recovered at the scene.
Following the discovery, students and residents gathered in clusters, struggling to comprehend the tragic incident. The university's Director of Corporate Communication and Protocol, Adegbenro Adebanjo, confirmed the incident and expressed the institution's deep sadness. He disclosed that the deceased's parents had been informed.
Adebanjo stated that after the incident was brought to management's attention, the university security promptly informed the police. Medical officials and security operatives coordinated the evacuation of the body to the mortuary. He emphasized that the university is cooperating fully with police investigators.
“The Students Affairs Division, FUTA, has always reiterated its readiness and willingness to provide support for students who may be battling with any issues and will continue to do so,” Adebanjo said. “Students are encouraged to take advantage of the availability of such counselling and guidance when they are faced with any issues on and off campus.”
Police Investigation Underway
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Ondo State Command, Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed that an investigation has commenced. He noted that detectives found no visible marks of violence on the deceased's body when they visited the scene.
“The corpse has been deposited at the mortuary for preservation and further examination while the investigation is ongoing to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident,” Jimoh said.
He urged the public, especially young people, to seek support and counselling during difficult moments and avoid actions that could endanger their lives.
