* suspends examination
Authorities of the University of Ibadan have suspended the remaining first semester examinations at its Lagos centre following the death of one of its students, Bolaji Pelewura.
Pelewura, a 100 level student at the department of political science, was said to have died on Friday few minutes after writing one of his examination papers at the institution’s Adebayo Akande e-Centre, Ikeja, Lagos.
A statement by the institution’s spokesperson, Mr. Olatunji Oladejo, quoted the centre’s director, Prof. Bayo Okunade, as describing the death as “a huge loss to the university as the institution’s students are its precious assets.”
He said: “You are all aware of the sad event of yesterday which led to the demise of Pelewura Bolaji, a 29- year- old Political Science Student.
“We regret the situation and commiserate with the family and you all. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace. By His grace, we will never have a repeat.”
He continued: “Since the incident and even before, certain measures were taken to put the situation under control with the support of many of our students in Lagos who took the lead in managing the situation.
“In particular, we appreciate our students who provided assistance to Bolaji before he finally gave up and subsequently the link with the family.
“We thank you all for the maturity and support that averted breakdown of law and order.”
Okunade advised that “this is not the time to apportion blame.”
He said: “I have read many posts and discussed with some of you on the incident and wish to appeal for your understanding.
“There was no way we would have continued examinations as some of you desired. We appreciate the concerns of those who had approved releases from their places of work.
“We will try to see how we can manage the situation to minimise inconveniences,” he said.
The remaining examinations have been suspended as a mark of respect for the deceased.
According to Okunade, the remaining examinations would re-commence soon while the interactive session for the returning students continues.