A MALE student of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, died after jumping from the third floor of a private lodge near Royal Kitchen Junction, Ifite-Awka, on Thursday.
Eyewitnesses and preliminary reports suggest he might have consumed a dangerous substance suspected to be ‘mkpurummiri’ before falling from the building.
Attempts to revive him failed, and he was confirmed dead at a nearby hospital. His roommate, who was found in an incoherent state in their shared room, is currently in custody and will be questioned once stable.
The UNIZIK’s Chief Safety Officer, Ken Chukwurah, confirmed the incident but emphasised that the university had no control over students living in off-campus lodges. “We are still investigating to determine what happened, how it happened, and to properly identify the victim,” he stated.
The incident has reignited fears over the growing use of hard substances among students and the limited oversight available in off-campus accommodations.
Just days earlier, on Monday, tragedy struck when 22-year-old Feranmi Akin-Akinye, a recent graduate of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD), fell from the 24th floor of the Cocoa House in Ibadan.
‘He was reportedly carrying out a work-related task to mount a banner at the top of the building when the platform beneath him gave way.
Feranmi, who had been undergoing cybersecurity training at a company on the building’s eighth floor, died instantly from the fall.
Contrary to initial media reports suggesting suicide, sources close to the family have insisted the death was accidental and blamed the company for negligence.
They alleged Feranmi was made to perform a risky task typically reserved for trained professionals.
A neighbour said, “I blame the company for his death. He was humble, responsible, and had a promising future. They gave him a job he wasn’t trained for.”
The company reportedly delayed informing the family.
Odu’a Investment Company Limited, which manages Cocoa House, acknowledged the incident in a statement but did not name the victim. They promised to cooperate with authorities as investigations continue.