The Oyo State Police Command has launched a full investigation into the mysterious death of a teenage boy whose body was discovered at the University of Ibadan (UI) swimming pool. The victim, yet to be formally identified, is believed to be between 14 and 15 years old.
The police disclosed the development in a statement issued on Saturday by their spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, in Ibadan, the state capital. According to the statement, the body has been deposited at the mortuary of the General Hospital, Adeoyo, Ibadan, following confirmation of death on arrival.
Police investigators said bloodstains were found around the pavilion near the pool, and the body showed blood oozing from the mouth and nose, along with slight bruises on the nose. Personal items, including a pair of shoes and a shirt believed to belong to the victim, were also recovered near the pool.
“The case is being treated as a suspected murder,” the police spokesperson said. “The Command has commenced a thorough investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.”
The police confirmed that information about the discovery was received from the Chief Security Officer of the University of Ibadan on March 26, 2027. Detectives promptly visited the scene, where preliminary observations revealed that the body had been removed from the pool and placed beside it.
The discovery has sent shockwaves through the University of Ibadan community and raised concerns among residents in Ibadan and across Oyo State. Social media posts about the incident quickly circulated, though the police have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information while the investigation continues.
The University of Ibadan swimming pool has been in operation for decades and is primarily used for student recreation, sports training, and local swimming competitions. While the facility is generally considered safe, there have been isolated cases of accidents over the years. However, authorities say the latest incident appears suspicious due to the visible bloodstains and bruises on the body, prompting a murder investigation.
Oyo State Police have deployed detectives to investigate the scene thoroughly and gather forensic evidence. They are also examining CCTV footage from the area and interviewing witnesses who may have been near the pool around the time of the incident.
“The Oyo State Police Command urges all members of the public to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information as investigations are ongoing,” Ayanlade said. “We assure the public that every effort will be made to ensure that those responsible are identified and brought to justice.”
The police noted that such investigations take time as forensic analysis, witness statements, and evidence collection are carefully carried out to avoid errors. They also advised parents and guardians to monitor children around water bodies and recreational facilities to prevent accidents while the inquiry is underway.
News of the death has sparked concern among students, parents, and the general public. Some community members expressed fear over safety at the university’s recreational facilities, while others called for stricter security measures to protect students and visitors.
A UI staff member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “This is a very sad incident. We hope the police will quickly find out what happened. Parents need to know their children are safe here.”
Social media users reacted with shock and sadness, highlighting the vulnerability of teenagers in public spaces. One post read, “It is tragic that a young life has been lost. The authorities must ensure proper security at public places.” Another user wrote, “We pray for the soul of the boy and hope the police catch those responsible.”
The incident also raises broader questions about safety in public recreational facilities across Nigeria. Experts emphasize the importance of regular monitoring, surveillance, and emergency preparedness in swimming pools and other leisure areas to prevent such tragedies.
In recent years, several states in Nigeria have reported accidents at swimming pools, water parks, and rivers, often involving children and teenagers. While some cases were confirmed as accidental drownings, others, like the recent UI incident, remain under investigation for possible foul play.
The University of Ibadan, established in 1948, is Nigeria’s premier higher institution, hosting thousands of students from across the country. Security and welfare of students remain a top priority for the university authorities, who have pledged to cooperate fully with the Oyo State Police in solving the case.
As the investigation continues, authorities have appealed to anyone with information about the incident to come forward. Police assured the public that all credible leads would be treated confidentially to aid a swift resolution of the case.