The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) community in Ile-Ife, Osun State, has been plunged into grief following the death of a Part Two medical student, Ajibola Ibitayo, who reportedly took his own life after failing an examination for the second time.
In a statement on Thursday, the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, confirmed that Ibitayo, with matriculation number DEN/2021/023, was a student in the Faculty of Dentistry. He allegedly injected himself at his parents’ home in Ejigbo, Osun State, after learning he would have to repeat the academic year again.
Olarewaju disclosed that the deceased had already been repeating Part Two during the last session. The latest examination results, released on Wednesday, showed he would have to remain in the same level for another year — a development believed to have triggered his fatal decision.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Simeon Bamire expressed profound sorrow over the loss, urging parents and guardians to help young people understand that challenges and setbacks are an inevitable part of life.
“Temporary setbacks in the pursuit of success are not the end of life. Failure should be seen as an opportunity to redirect one’s path toward greater achievements,” Bamire said.
He prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved family, the Faculty of Dentistry, the College of Health Sciences, and the entire university community.
