The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has announced the death of an 18-year-old medical student of the institution, sending shock and sadness across the university community.
The deceased student, identified as Timilehin Adetoye Toromade, was a part-three medical student in the College of Health Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery. According to the university, Timilehin died in his sleep in the early hours of Tuesday, January 6, 2026.
The sad development was confirmed in a statement issued by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Abiodun Olarewaju. The statement described the incident as shocking and deeply painful to the entire academic community.
“The university received the news of the student’s passing with shock and deep sorrow,” the statement said, adding that the loss was devastating to students, staff, and all who knew the young medical student.
Timilehin, who had the matriculation number CLI/2022/133, was said to be healthy and active before the incident. Preliminary information from the university suggested that he might have died shortly after 2 a.m.
According to the statement, one of his roommates reported that the deceased had opened the door for another student around that time. After that moment, he reportedly returned to his bed and later passed away while sleeping.
The sudden nature of his death has raised concern and questions among students and staff, though the university said it is still too early to draw conclusions.
The Vice-Chancellor of OAU, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, expressed deep condolences on behalf of the Visitor to the university, the University Council, Management, Senate, staff, and students.
Professor Bamire described the incident as a painful and heartbreaking loss, especially given the young age and bright future of the deceased.
“The loss of a young life filled with promise, purpose, and potential is a tragedy that words alone cannot adequately capture,” the Vice-Chancellor said.
He added that the university community is united in grief over the passing of a student who had committed himself to the demanding training required in medical school, with the goal of serving humanity.
According to the Vice-Chancellor, Timilehin’s death has left a deep void among his classmates, friends, lecturers, and all members of the OAU community who came in contact with him.
Medical training at OAU is known to be rigorous and demanding, with students often spending long hours studying and attending practical sessions. Students in the College of Health Sciences are trained to handle pressure, discipline, and commitment from an early stage in their studies.
Many students and staff described Timilehin as a quiet and focused individual who showed dedication to his studies. News of his death spread quickly across campus, leading to an outpouring of grief on social media and in student hostels.
Some students were seen gathering in small groups, discussing the incident and comforting one another. Many expressed shock that someone so young and full of life could pass away so suddenly.
In response to the tragedy, the university management said it is working closely with relevant authorities to fully understand the circumstances surrounding Timilehin’s death. The school explained that this process would follow established medical and administrative procedures.
The statement did not mention any immediate cause of death, stressing that investigations are ongoing and that official findings will be communicated when available.
The management also disclosed that steps are being taken to support students and staff who may have been emotionally affected by the loss. This includes access to counselling and other support services to help members of the university cope with the tragedy.
University officials urged students to look out for one another during this difficult time and to seek help if they feel overwhelmed.
OAU, one of Nigeria’s leading federal universities, has a long history of academic excellence and a strong sense of community. Incidents involving the death of students are rare and usually deeply felt across the campus.
Over the years, the university has continued to improve its health and welfare services, including the university teaching hospitals complex, which serves both students and the wider public.
The management called on students, staff, alumni, and friends of the institution to remain calm and compassionate as the situation is handled. It also appealed for respect for the privacy of the deceased’s family during their time of grief.
The university extended its sympathy to Timilehin’s parents, siblings, and relatives, describing the loss as one that goes beyond the campus and touches the larger society.
“As a community, we mourn with the family and share in their pain,” the statement said.
Students’ leaders have also expressed condolences, urging the university to ensure proper investigation and continued support for those affected. Some have called for increased health awareness among students, especially regarding stress and sleep-related issues.
As investigations continue, the OAU community remains in mourning, united in grief and remembrance of a young life cut short.
