The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the death of two students of the state-owned Adekunle Ajasin University, following a tragic swimming pool incident at a hotel in Akungba-Akoko, Akoko South-West Local Government Area of the state.
The victims, identified as Adegbola Blessing, 19, and Oludere Opeyemi, 22, were said to be among newly matriculated students of the institution.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, the incident occurred on January 29, 2026, during a swimming pool party organised by Unibercity Lounge and Hotel for fresh students.
Jimoh explained that a report was received at the Akungba Divisional Police Headquarters at about 8:00 p.m. from the hotel’s pool manager, Shittu, informing the police that Adegbola Blessing had been discovered unconscious inside the swimming pool.
“He was immediately rescued and administered first aid. The victim reportedly regained consciousness, was able to stand, and was later taken home by his friends,” the police spokesperson said.
However, shortly after the first rescue, another student, Oludere Opeyemi, was also found unconscious in the same swimming pool. He was promptly rescued and rushed to the State Hospital in Ikare-Akoko, where he was later confirmed dead by medical personnel.
The police further disclosed that in the early hours of January 30, at about 7:00 a.m., Adegbola Blessing, who had initially survived the incident, was reported to have also died.
As part of preliminary investigations, the hotel manager, Ayomide Badejo, and the pool manager were invited for questioning.
Jimoh added that the case has since been transferred to the Command’s monitoring unit for a more detailed investigation.
The remains of the deceased students have been deposited at the morgue of the State Hospital, Ikare-Akoko, for preservation and autopsy.
Reacting to the incident, the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Lawal, urged hotel owners and operators across the state to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of their guests by ensuring that adequate and functional safety measures are in place, particularly around recreational facilities.
Lawal also appealed to members of the public to remain calm and avoid speculation, assuring that the police would provide further updates as investigations progress.