OAU Community Mourns Medical Student Who Died in His Sleep

The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of an 18-year-old Part Three medical student, Timilehin Toromade.

The university confirmed his death in a statement released on Tuesday by the Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju. According to the statement, Toromade, with matriculation number CLI/2022/133, was believed to have died in his sleep in the early hours of Tuesday. One of his roommates reportedly opened the door around 2 a.m. for another medical student residing in the same building, suggesting he may have passed shortly after that time.

“The Management of Obafemi Awolowo University has received with profound shock, deep sorrow and a heavy heart the devastating news of the sudden passing of an eighteen-year-old Part Three student of the College of Health Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, who reportedly died in his sleep,” the statement read.

The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simeon Bamire, extended heartfelt condolences to the deceased’s family, classmates, friends and the entire university community. Describing the death as “deeply painful and distressing,” he said the loss of such a promising young life had created a profound void.

“The entire University community is united in grief over the untimely departure of a student who had embraced the rigours of medical training with the hope of healing others and serving humanity someday,” he said.

The university assured that it is working with relevant authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident in line with medical and institutional procedures. It also announced that support measures are being put in place to help students and staff emotionally affected by the tragedy.

“At this moment of collective mourning, the University calls on students, staff, alumni and friends of the institution to remain calm, compassionate and prayerful, while upholding the values of empathy and solidarity for which Great Ife is known,” the statement added.