A 300-level student at the Federal University of Technology Akure, Olona Oluwapelumi, tragically committed suicide at his residence in the Aule Area of Akure, the Ondo State capital. Known by his friends as “Black,” he was a student in the Department of Industrial Design. Reports indicate that he hanged himself in his room, although the reasons for his actions remain unknown at this time. A source from the university revealed that friends of the deceased visited his room on Saturday and found it locked. After several unanswered calls, they broke down the door and discovered him hanging.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, confirmed the student’s death and noted that the incident had been reported to the police. She stated, “His body has been taken to the morgue, and an investigation has begun to uncover the reasons behind his actions, but it was a case of suicide.” The Students Union Government of the university also issued a statement, signed by its President, Jesunifemi Asoore, expressing deep sadness over the loss of their colleague and friend, Olona Joseph Oluwapelumi, who passed away on January 21, 2023. The statement acknowledged the emotional turmoil that many students might be experiencing in light of this sudden death.
In response to the incident, Mr. Adegbenro Adebanjo, the Head of Media and Protocols Unit at the university, confirmed that the institution is aware of the unfortunate event. He mentioned that the Students Affairs Division has reached out to the family and is providing support services. Counselors are also available to assist students who may be affected by this tragic development. He expressed prayers for the family during this difficult time, hoping they find the strength to cope with their loss.
A friend of the deceased, Omoniyi Enoch, shared insights with the Union of Campus Journalists of FUTA, suggesting that financial issues may have contributed to Olona’s distress. Enoch explained that Olona, who served as the Financial Secretary of his department, had faced pressure related to a payment issue. When the department’s Treasurer was unavailable, Olona took on the responsibility of collecting payments from students. However, a transaction involving N100,000 intended for a departmental project went awry, leading to accusations of fraud against him.
Enoch recounted that Olona had been deeply troubled by the situation, especially after his Head of Department contacted his father regarding the alleged fraud. He noted that Olona had not attended lectures since returning from the Christmas break due to the mounting pressure. On the day of his death, Enoch had spent time with Olona, who expressed a desire to avoid being alone. After leaving him at the Students’ Union Building, Enoch later attempted to check on him but received no response. It was only the following morning that he discovered Olona hanging from the ceiling after peering through the window.
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