OAU VC Confirms Student’s Suicide, Urges Parents to Ease Pressure

A 200-level Dentistry student at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ajibola Ibitayo, died by suicide after failing his exams twice, prompting the Vice-Chancellor to urge parents to reduce pressure on students and support them through academic setbacks.

The Vice-Chancellor of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Professor Simeon Bamire, has confirmed the tragic death of a 200-level medical student, Ajibola Ibitayo, who allegedly took his own life after failing the same examination twice.

In a statement by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Olarewaju, Ibitayo—who was studying in the Faculty of Dentistry and had matriculation number DEN/2021/023—reportedly ended his life after receiving exam results that meant he would have to repeat his second year again. The incident occurred at his parents’ home in Ejigbo, Osun State, where he is believed to have injected himself with a substance.

Prof. Bamire expressed deep sorrow over the loss and used the moment to call on parents and guardians to offer emotional support to students facing academic setbacks.

“Parents must help their children understand that failure is not the end. Setbacks are a normal part of life and growth,” he said.

The VC warned that both parental and peer pressure can contribute to declining mental health among students and may lead to tragic outcomes if not addressed. He encouraged students to view failure as an opportunity to refocus and grow, rather than as a defeat.

He extended his condolences to the family, the Faculty of Dentistry, the College of Health Sciences, and the entire university community, praying they find the strength to bear the loss.

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SOURCES: ALLSCHOOL, GUARDIAN