JUST IN: OAU 200-Ievel student dies after falling inside hostel soakaway

Tragedy struck at the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife on Wednesday as A 200-level student of the Department of Linguistics and African Languages, identified as Miss Ajibola Ayomikun, died after falling inside a soakaway in BVER, a private hostel around the University campus.

Confirming the incident to newsmen, the University's Public Relations Officer, Mr Abiodun Olanrewaju described it as unfortunate, stating that the University is saddened by the sad occurrence.

“When the news got to us, we immediately mobilised the emergency responders from the University, Osun State, and the OAU Teaching Hospital who through concerted efforts got the student out.

“She was immediately taken to the OAU Teaching Hospitals Complex where she was certified dead,” he said.

STUDENTS BLAME DEATH ON POOR MAINTENANCE

Meanwhile, a students body in the University has described the incident as avoidable.

The students in a statement alleged poor maintenance of facilities at the hostel as responsible for the loss inspite of the huge amount paid as rent.

"It must be noted that Heritage's death was avoidable if the soakaway system was properly constructed and covered. It is saddening that this has happened despite the huge amount of money paid by students for rent.", the statement read in part.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Eyitope Ogunbodede was said to have lead the varsity’s management team to the scene and sympathised with the students and parents of the deceased.