GBENRO ADESINA/IBADAN
The University of Ibadan Distance Learning Centre has identified the student who slumped and died at its Lagos Centre on Friday.
He was Bolaji Pelewura, a Political Science student, according to a statement issued and signed by the Director of Public Communication of the university, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo.
Pelewura died at the Adebayo Akande e-Centre, Ikeja, Lagos, on Friday, 14 August, 2015 when he was waiting to write an examination. The 100-level student was said to have written the first paper for the day before the tragedy.
The Centre’s Director, Prof. Bayo Okunade said the death of Pelewura was a huge loss to the University. According to him, “You are all aware of the sad event of yesterday which led to the demise of Pelewura Bolaji, a 29-year old Political Science Student. We regret the situation and commiserate with the family and you all. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. By His grace, we will never have a repeat of that.”
The Director further said: “Since the incident and even before, certain measures were taken to put the situation under control with the support of many of our students in Lagos who took the lead in managing the situation. In particular, we appreciate our students who provided assistance to Bolaji before he finally gave up and subsequently, the link with the family. We thank you all for the maturity and support that averted breakdown of law and order.”
Prof. Okunade advised that this is not the time to apportion blame. “I have read many posts and discussed with some of you on the incident and wish to appeal for your understanding. There was no way we would have continued examinations as some of you desire. We appreciate the concerns of those who had approved releases from their places of work, we will try to see how we can manage the situation to minimise inconveniences”, the Director said.
Prof. Okunade stressed that the remaining examinations are suspended as a mark of respect for the late student. He stressed that examinations would re-commence soon.