The Student Union Government of Obafemi Awolowo University has reacted to the demise of a 100-level student of the Department of Linguistics and Nigerian Languages, Heritage Ajibola, who reportedly fell into a Septic tank in her hostel on Wednesday.
According to report, Ajibola, was trying to spread her clothes when she mistakenly stepped on planks used to cover part of the septic tank and plank collapse under her leg, then fell into the tank.
Findings revealed that part of the soakaway had already collapsed and was covered with a plank to cover the exposed part.
Confirming her death, the President of the University’s Student Union, Ogunperi Taofeek said that although she was dead, the tragedy could have been avoided if the soak-away system was properly constructed and covered.
His words: ”Heritage Ajibola, the Linguistics and African Languages student who accidentally fell into the soakaway this afternoon at Bver Hostel, Maintenance Hostels, is confirmed dead!
“This incident is highly unfortunate. The Union mourns her. May her soul rest in peace. May God give her family, friends and course mates the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
“It must be noted that Heritage’s death was avoidable if the soakaway system was properly constructed and covered. It is saddening that this has happened despite the huge amounts of money paid by students for rent.
“The Management of the Hostel must answer for the death of Heritage. The Union is immediately demanding justice for Heritage, with a view to forestalling a possible reoccurrence of this”.
You would recall that the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eyitope Ogunbodede, earlier led his management team to the scene, sympathised with the students and commiserated with the parents of the deceased.
Professor Ogunbodede, who described the incidence as tragic and unacceptable, appealed to the students to remain calm and law-abiding as the police, who have been briefed, are also investigating.
