Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been thrown into mourning following the tragic death of Ajibola Ibitayo, a promising second-year student of the Faculty of Dentistry, who reportedly took his own life after learning he would have to repeat his class for a second consecutive academic session.
According to the university’s spokesperson, Abiodun Olarewaju, Mr. Ibitayo ended his life at home shortly after the release of last semester’s results revealed that he had failed to progress academically. The crushing news, sources say, plunged the young scholar into a depth of despair from which he could not recover.
VC’s Heartfelt Condolence
In an emotional statement on Thursday, OAU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adebayo Bamire, described the incident as “deeply saddening” and a stark reminder of the silent battles students often face.
“This tragedy underscores the need for parents and guardians to continually reassure their children that setbacks are a natural part of life — not its end,” he said, urging students to see failure as a stepping stone to eventual success rather than a final verdict on their worth.
Students’ Union Raises Alarm on Mental Health
The Obafemi Awolowo University Dental Students’ Association (IFUDSA) expressed shock over the incident, calling it a devastating loss to the faculty.
In a statement signed by its president, Adebayo Idris, IFUDSA urged students to look out for one another and to seek help without fear or shame.
“Mental health is just as important as physical health. No one should ever feel alone in their struggles. We encourage all members of our faculty to reach out, offer support, and seek professional help when needed,” the statement read.
Describing the late Ibitayo as “a bright young mind who silently fought personal battles,” the association extended its condolences to his family, friends, classmates, and all who knew him.
A Tragedy That Demands Action
The heartbreaking loss has reignited conversations on Nigerian campuses about academic pressure, stigma around failure, and the urgent need for accessible mental health support systems in universities.
Mental health experts warn that the combination of high academic expectations, financial stress, and limited counselling services leaves many students vulnerable to depression and suicidal thoughts.
As OAU mourns one of its own, the message reverberates beyond the campus walls — failure is not the end, and no one should have to suffer in silence.
PIONEER NEWS 