BAMIDELE OLUMILUA UNIVERSITY OF EDUCATION, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: POLICE BEGIN INVESTIGATION OVER DEATH OF STUDENTS IN EKITI HOTEL
The Ekiti State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the death of three persons during a late-night party at a hotel in Ikere-Ekiti, the headquarters of Ikere Local Government Area of Ekiti State.
Tribune Online had reported the deaths of the three persons during a party organised by some students at a hotel after the convocation ceremony of the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI).
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Abutu Sunday, in a statement on Monday confirming the incident, said a staff member of the hotel and two students were pronounced dead after a stampede that followed a fight during the party.
The PPRO said, “A preliminary investigation revealed that the students, after their convocation on 18th April, 2026, decided to move to the hotel for a party.”
“During the party, which lasted till the following day, two yet-to-be-identified students had an argument and began to fight. Others around decided to run out of the hotel premises, and there was a stampede that claimed the lives of the three persons. The bodies of the deceased have been deposited in the morgue for autopsy.”
The police spokesperson noted that the Commissioner of Police, CP Michael Falade, has ordered a full investigation into the incident.
“The CP, while sympathising with the relatives and friends of the victims, calls for calm, as no stone will be left unturned concerning the unfortunate incident,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, the management of the Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti (BOUESTI), distanced the institution from the event and activities at the hotel that led to the deaths of the students.
The Registrar, Mrs F.A. Adeusi, in a statement lamenting the incident and the deaths of two graduates and a student, said, “We wish to categorically state that no stampede or violent incident occurred at the convocation venue or within the university premises during or after the ceremony.”
According to her, “The incident being referenced in the online reports took place at a private off-campus location, specifically where some graduands independently organised a night party to celebrate their graduation. It was at the venue of the party that a fight reportedly broke out, leading to a stampede.”
“Regrettably, we confirm that two of our graduands and one other student lost their lives in this tragic occurrence. Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased during this profoundly difficult time.”
“The university community mourns this painful loss and sympathises with the families and friends of all those affected.”
“The university remains committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, order, and integrity in all its activities.”
@ Nigerian Tribune
