The management of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Kogi State, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of one of its lecturers, Mr. Olabode Abimbola-Ibikunle, while cautioning against speculation as investigations continue.
In a statement issued by the university’s Registrar, Mr. Yahaya Alilu, in Lokoja, the incident was described as “tragic and disturbing.” He stressed the need for a thorough investigation to uncover the full circumstances surrounding the lecturer’s death.
Mr. Abimbola-Ibikunle died at a hotel in Anyigba while in the company of a 200-level student, Miss Glory Ojochegbe-Samuel. The police have since launched an investigation, with an autopsy underway to determine the cause of death.
According to Kogi Police Command spokesperson, SP William Ovye-Aya, the hotel manager, Moses Friday, reported that Miss Samuel had raised an alarm after the lecturer collapsed following their encounter. The lecturer was rushed to a hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The university, however, raised concerns over what it described as “unverified reports” linking other students to the incident. In particular, the statement distanced Miss Bello Yahaya-Lubabat of the Department of Educational Administration and Planning from the case, urging the public not to tarnish the reputation of uninvolved individuals.
“The university firmly dissociates Miss Bello Yahaya-Lubabat and other students from the matter and cautions against the spread of unfounded associations that may harm the reputations of innocent persons,” the statement read.
PAAU urged the public and media to await the outcome of investigations and refrain from making premature conclusions. “The university remains committed to upholding the values of truth, fairness, and justice,” the registrar said.
Authorities confirmed that further actions will be taken based on findings from the ongoing investigation.
