Just weeks after the brutal killing of two students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), the institution has once again been thrown into mourning following the gruesome murder of another student, Joy Adeyemi.
Adeyemi, a student in the Department of Human Kinetics, was reportedly killed by her boyfriend, an indigene of the university’s host community, according to Republican Nigeria.
She had been declared missing earlier in the week, but her lifeless body was later discovered in the suspect’s locked room after neighbours raised alarm over a foul odour coming from the apartment.
Reports indicated that the suspect stabbed her to death on Tuesday and fled the community with proceeds from her Point-of-Sale (POS) business.
“Her disappearance raised concern, but it wasn’t until neighbours started perceiving a bad smell that her body was discovered. She had been locked in the room since Tuesday,” a local source revealed.
The killing has sparked widespread outrage among AAUA students, who staged a protest around the university town. Holding placards with messages like “Stop Killing AAUA Students” and “We Need Justice,” the students called on the Ondo State Government and security agencies to act swiftly and decisively.
In a joint statement, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) Joint Campus Committee, Ondo Axis, described the recent killings as unacceptable and alarming. The statement, signed by Chairman Adekanye Adeboye and Secretary Oladele Emmanuel, condemned the repeated attacks on students and issued a 24-hour ultimatum to authorities.
“It is horrifying that while we are still grieving the brutal murders of two students, another life has been cut short in the most brutal way,” the statement read.
“We demand immediate arrest of the perpetrator, stronger security measures, and an end to these relentless attacks. If our demands are not met within 24 hours, we will mobilize nationwide student protests in Ondo State.”
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ondo State, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, said three suspects have been arrested, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the main suspect who is still at large. “We are actively investigating and will ensure all those involved are brought to justice,” he said.
Meanwhile, the university’s Head of Media and Protocol, Mr. Victor Akinpelumi, urged students to remain calm and not take the law into their own hands. “We appeal for patience while the police carry out a full investigation. Justice will be served,” he assured.
The latest killing has intensified growing fears over student safety in Akungba-Akoko. Students and parents alike are demanding immediate government action to stop what they describe as a troubling trend of violence targeting the university community.