The management of Federal University of Technology, Akure has confirmed the death of a 23-year-old student, Favour Olaniyi, whose body was discovered in a bush near his off-campus residence in Akure, Ondo State.
Olaniyi, a student of the Department of Surveying and Geo-informatics, was reportedly found dead on Saturday in the North Gate area of the institution, triggering anxiety among students and residents of the university community.
According to reports, an empty bottle believed to contain a toxic herbicide was recovered at the scene, raising suspicions that the incident may have involved self-harm.
However, authorities said investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the death.
The university’s Director of Corporate Communication and Protocol, Adegbenro Adebanjo, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Sunday.
He described the development as tragic and disclosed that the deceased student’s parents had already been informed.
Adebanjo stated that university security personnel immediately contacted the police after the discovery, while medical officials and security operatives assisted in evacuating the body to a mortuary.
He added that the institution is cooperating fully with security agencies investigating the case and has also activated counselling support for students through the Students’ Affairs Division.
“The Students’ Affairs Division, FUTA, has always reiterated its readiness and willingness to provide support for students who may be battling with any issues and will continue to do so,” Adebanjo said.
He further encouraged students facing emotional or personal challenges to seek counselling and guidance both on and off campus.
The Ondo State Police Command also confirmed that an investigation has commenced into the incident.
Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abayomi Jimoh said preliminary findings showed no visible signs of violence on the deceased’s body.
“The corpse has been deposited at the mortuary for preservation and further examination while investigation is ongoing to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident,” he said.
Jimoh also urged young people and members of the public to seek help and counselling during difficult periods instead of taking actions that could endanger their lives.
