By our Reporter
A Year One student of the Department of Surveying and Geoinformatics at the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), identified as Favour Olaniyi, has reportedly died after allegedly consuming a poisonous substance believed to be an insecticide.
The deceased, who was said to have died by suicide, was found lifeless near his off-campus residence on Saturday by some of his colleagues, who alleged that he took his own life.
However, the motive behind the incident could not be immediately ascertained as of the time of filing this report.
Confirming the death, the university, in a statement issued by its Director of Corporate Communication and Protocol, Adegbenro Adebanjo, did not state whether it was a suicide case.
According to the statement, the institution expressed deep sadness over the incident involving Favour Olaniyi, a first-year student in the Department of Surveying and Geoinformatics.
Adebanjo explained that immediately the incident was reported, the university’s security unit alerted the police, while medical personnel and security operatives coordinated the evacuation of the body to the morgue.
“The parents of the student have since been informed about the unfortunate development,” the statement added.
He further disclosed that the police had commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death, noting that the university was fully cooperating with security agencies.
Adebanjo also said the institution had begun providing counselling support for students who may have been affected by the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his parents and family members at this very difficult time,” the statement read.
The university reiterated the readiness of its Student Affairs Division to support students facing emotional or personal challenges, urging them to seek counselling and guidance when necessary.
Meanwhile, the incident has sparked renewed concern among students and residents over mental health challenges, emotional distress, and academic pressure in tertiary institutions, with calls for stronger awareness and support systems for students.
