The students of Osun State University, Ifetedo College, on Thursday staged a protest to demand a probe into the circumstances surrounding the death of a 400-level student of Criminology and Security Studies, Grace Osunlakin.
Circumstances surrounding the death were not immediately clear, but Osunlakin reportedly died after health complications that started on Wednesday evening.
A cross-section of the students of the college, who were displeased with the manner the health complications of the deceased were handled by the medical facility of the university, alleged that Osunlakin did not receive timely medical attention when her health deteriorated.
A student of the university, who participated in the protest but pleaded for anonymity to avoid victimisation, alleged that the medical facilities of the university usually close by 6:00pm.
“The college medical facility usually closes for the day by 6:00pm, and Osunlakin’s health deteriorated after the facility had closed for the day. If medical care had reached her early, probably, she would have survived.
“Most students are displeased with the way her health complications were handled. That is why we all came out to protest today. Students are ready to go to any length to demand a change. Our belief is that negligence caused the death of our colleague,” the student said.
But while reacting to the sudden death of the student, UNIOSUN management, in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of the institution, Ademola Adesoji, promised a thorough probe into the incident.
“Management of Osun State University has received with deep sorrow the reports surrounding the unfortunate death of one of its students in the College of Law. This painful development has understandably generated concerns among students, parents, stakeholders, and members of the public.
“We wish to state unequivocally that the university is taking the matter with the utmost seriousness and has commenced a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the statement read partly.
The management condoled the bereaved family, colleagues, friends of the deceased student, the College of Law, and the entire university community and assured the public that no stone would be left unturned in unravelling the facts.
“If it is established that any medical personnel or member of staff acted negligently or failed in their professional responsibilities, appropriate disciplinary measures will be taken in line with the university’s regulations and extant laws.
“We appeal to our students, parents, and stakeholders to remain calm and allow the ongoing investigation to run its full course. We also urge everyone to refrain from speculation or actions that may compromise the integrity of the process,” the statement further read.
Meanwhile, the management has announced the closure of the college, following the protest by the students.
The PRO, who announced the closure of the college, explained that “The decision to close the campus indefinitely was taken after careful consideration of the circumstances surrounding the incident, with the aim of allowing emotions to settle among students and creating room for a comprehensive assessment of healthcare facilities, medical personnel, and water supply systems within the Ifetedo Campus.
“The management explained that the measure forms part of broader efforts to address longstanding challenges associated with the campus and to ensure the safety, welfare, and well-being of all students and staff.”
The university subsequently reassured members of the public that it remains committed to conducting a thorough review of the situation and implementing necessary measures to prevent a recurrence.
