Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Ile Ife
By OLA MODUPE, Osogbo –
A 200-level medical student at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ajibola Ibitayo, has passed away after reportedly commiting suicide following a second unsuccessful attempt at his examinations.
The university’s spokesperson, Abiodun Olanrewaju, confirmed the incident in a statement released on Thursday in Ile-Ife, Osun.
According to Olanrewaju, Ibitayo, a Dentistry student with matriculation number DEN/2021/023, was devastated after learning he would need to repeat his second-year studies.
“The student’s semester results, released yesterday, indicated he would repeat Part Two for another academic year, having already repeated the same level in the previous session,” Olanrewaju explained.
He said the student reportedly injected himself at his parents’ home in Ejigbo, Osun.
The statement further noted that Ibitayo, whose father is a medical professional, was at his family home in Ejigbo, Osun, at the time of the incident.
OAU’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simeon Bamire, addressed the tragedy, encouraging resilience among students.
“Setbacks are a natural part of the journey to success and should be seen as opportunities for growth,” Bamire said, while extending condolences to Ibitayo’s family.
The university urged students facing challenges to seek support and emphasized the importance of mental health awareness.
