A routine academic outing turned tragic in Ekiti State when two students of Ekiti State University (EKSU), Ado-Ekiti, lost their lives in the waters of the Ikun Dam in the Moba Local Government Area. The victims, identified as Oluwatobiloba Osho and Oladimeji Victor, were undergraduate students from the Theatre Arts Department.
The incident occurred on Friday, January 18, 2025, when the students, alongside their colleagues, had ventured to the neighboring Igogo-Ekiti community for research work and rehearsals. Reports indicate that the duo decided to visit the nearby Ikun Dam after completing their academic activities.
From Routine to Ruin
An anonymous source, who was part of the trip, revealed how the tragic turn of events unfolded. “The students were in Igogo-Ekiti for their regular departmental rehearsals,” the source explained. “After we wrapped up, Oluwatobiloba and Oladimeji decided to visit Ikun Dam, likely to unwind or sightsee. Sadly, that decision cost them their lives.”
The serene waters of the Ikun Dam, often a picturesque attraction for locals and visitors, turned deadly for the two young men. It is believed they underestimated the depth and potential danger of the dam, which has been known to have treacherous currents beneath its calm surface.
Search and Rescue Efforts
The tragedy has drawn attention to the challenges of safety around water bodies in the area. The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for Ekiti State Command, SP Abutu Sunday, confirmed the incident, stating that a recovery operation was underway.
“Efforts are ongoing by the Police, fishermen, and other concerned citizens to recover the bodies of the two students who drowned in the Ero Dam in Ikun-Ekiti,” he said.
As of the time of reporting, the bodies had yet to be retrieved, leaving the families and the university community in a state of agonizing suspense.
A Community in Mourning
The news of the students’ deaths sent shockwaves through the EKSU campus and the larger Ekiti State community. Students, lecturers, and residents have expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
While the Ikun Dam is a popular destination for sightseeing, it has also been the site of several accidents in the past. Locals often warn visitors about the risks of swimming in the dam due to its unpredictable depths and strong undercurrents.
This incident has reignited calls for better safety measures around water bodies in the state.
An Avoidable Tragedy?
This tragedy has also raised questions about student safety during off-campus activities. Critics argue that universities must provide clearer guidelines and ensure proper supervision for students, particularly during excursions or research trips.
The loss of Oluwatobiloba and Oladimeji is a grim reminder of the risks associated with water-related activities and the need for caution, especially in areas with limited safety infrastructure.
As the recovery efforts continue, the thoughts of the university community and the entire state are with the families of the deceased. Their untimely deaths have cast a shadow over what should have been a routine academic outing, leaving behind questions, grief, and an urgent call for action to prevent future tragedies.
Context and Background
The Ikun Dam, part of the larger Ero River project, serves as a critical water supply for the Moba region and its environs. While it is an essential resource for irrigation and domestic use, it also attracts tourists and locals due to its scenic beauty. However, the lack of regulated access and safety measures has made it a dangerous spot for recreational activities.
Over the years, incidents like this have underscored the need for public awareness campaigns on water safety and stricter enforcement of regulations around dams and reservoirs in the country.
