A devastating incident has shaken the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) community in Ile-Ife, Osun State, as a medical student, Ajibola Ibitayo, took his own life after failing his exams twice. The student, who was in his second year of study in the Faculty of Dentistry, reportedly injected himself at his parents’ home in Ejigbo, Osun State.
Details of the Incident:
- Student’s Identity: Ajibola Ibitayo, Matriculation Number: DEN/2021/023
- Cause of Death: The student allegedly committed suicide due to the stress of repeating Part Two of his studies for the second time
- Family Background: Ibitayo’s father is a medical doctor
University’s Response:
- Confirmation: The university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, confirmed the incident
- Appeal: Vice-Chancellor Prof. Simeon Bamire urged parents and guardians to instill in their children the understanding that temporary setbacks are part of life and not the end of it
- Message to Students: Bamire encouraged students to view failure as an opportunity to redirect their paths toward success and greater achievements
This tragic incident highlights the need for students to prioritize their mental health and seek support when facing academic challenges.