Babcock confirms student is alive after hall incident

By Gabriel Dike

Babcock University (BU), Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, on Monday reacted to reports circulating in the public space concerning an unfortunate incident involving a student of the university who resides in one of the student residential facilities.

The university confirmed that the student is alive and currently receiving medical attention at the Babcock University Teaching Hospital.

“Contrary to reports suggesting that the student may have died, we wish to assure the public that he is responding positively to treatment and is receiving the necessary medical care.

“The incident was brought under control by the commendable and prompt intervention of the student’s roommates, whose timely action prevented what could have been a more tragic outcome. The student and one of his rescuers, however, sustained injuries in the process and were immediately taken for medical attention.”

BU, in a statement signed by the Associate Vice President, Communication, Media and Branding, Johnson Akintayo, said the student’s parents had been contacted and were on campus to be with their ward as he receives treatment. The other student, who sustained injury while rescuing his roommate, has been treated and discharged.

The university is investigating to establish the immediate and underlying circumstances surrounding the incident.

Akintayo added: “This process will help us understand what happened, identify any factors that may have contributed to the situation, and determine appropriate measures to prevent a recurrence.”

The university management urged members of the public and media organisations to refrain from circulating unverified information or attributing causes to the incident while investigations are ongoing.

“Beyond providing the necessary medical attention, the university is committed to supporting the student’s full recovery and well-being. To this end, the university will ensure that appropriate support and guidance are available to facilitate his recovery.

“Babcock University takes the safety, health and welfare of its students and employees seriously. We remain committed to providing a safe, supportive and welcoming environment where students can learn, grow, receive mentorship and realise their full potential,” he stated.

He said BU recognised that the well-being of its students goes beyond academic achievement and requires sustained attention to their physical, emotional and social needs.

He noted: “We appreciate the concern expressed by members of the public, parents, alumni and the wider university community. We particularly acknowledge and commend the courage and prompt action of his roommates who came to his rescue.”

Akintayo appealed for restraint in discussing the incident, particularly out of respect for the student and his family at this difficult time.

He assured that BU will continue to monitor the student’s recovery and take all necessary steps to establish the facts surrounding the incident.