The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of an 18-year-old medical student, Timilehin Toromade.
Toromade, a Part Three student of the College of Health Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, was believed to have died in his sleep in the early hours of Tuesday.
In a statement signed by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, the management said the incident likely occurred after 2 a.m., noting that one of the deceased’s roommates had opened the door for another medical student in the same building around that time.
“With profound shock and deep sorrow, the management received the devastating news of the sudden passing of an eighteen-year-old medical student, who reportedly died in his sleep in the early hours of Tuesday, January 6, 2026,” the statement said.
The late student, with matriculation number CLI/2022/133, was described as young and full of promise, having already embraced the demanding journey of medical training.
Reacting to the loss, the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Prof. Simeon Bamire, expressed deep sadness, condoling with the bereaved family, classmates, friends, and the entire university community.
Describing the incident as “deeply painful and distressing,” Bamire said the death had created a painful void within the university.
“The loss of a young life filled with promise, purpose and potential is a tragedy that words alone cannot adequately capture,” he said.
The university assured the public that it is working closely with relevant authorities to understand the circumstances surrounding the student’s death, in line with established medical procedures.
OAU also said support systems have been activated to help students and staff members who have been emotionally affected by the incident, while urging the university community to remain calm, compassionate and prayerful during this period of grief.
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