Babcock student alive, receiving treatment after suspected suicide

The management of Babcock University, Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, on Monday confirmed that a student involved in an incident at one of the institution’s residential facilities is alive and currently receiving medical attention at the university’s teaching hospital.

In a statement signed by Dr Johnson Akintayo, the Associate Vice President, Communication, Media and Branding of the university, the management dismissed media reports suggesting that the student, whose identity was not disclosed, had died.

The university said the student was receiving medical treatment alongside his roommate, who also sustained injuries during the incident.

A video that surfaced online on Monday showed a student attempting to jump through the window of one of the university’s hostels as his roommates struggled to prevent him from doing so.

Another video showed the student breaking the window glass while attempting to free himself from his roommates’ grip.

 He sustained injuries in the process, with blood visible, as some students could be heard shouting in panic in the background.

Following the incident, some media reports claimed that the student had died.

However, the university, in its statement, said, “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.

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“The student and one of his rescuers, however, sustained injuries in the process and were immediately taken for medical attention. The student’s parents have been contacted and are on campus to be with their ward as he receives treatment. The other student who sustained injuries while rescuing his roommate has been treated and discharged.”

The university also disclosed that it had commenced an investigation to establish the immediate and underlying circumstances surrounding the incident.

The statement 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 therefore urges 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 medical attention, the university said it was committed to supporting the student’s full recovery and well-being, adding that it would ensure appropriate support and guidance were made available to facilitate his recovery.

Akintayo further stated, “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.

“We recognise that the well-being of our students goes beyond academic achievement and requires sustained attention to their physical, emotional and social needs.

“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.

“We appeal for sensitivity and restraint in discussing this incident, particularly out of respect for the student and his family at this difficult time. Babcock University will continue to monitor the student’s recovery and take all necessary steps to establish the facts surrounding the incident.”