A tragic incident has struck Covenant University following the death of a 500-level student, Toluwase Jesutunmise Emmanuel, who collapsed during a Chancellor’s Cup football match on campus.
Toluwase, a final-year Building Technology student at Covenant University in Ota, Ogun State, reportedly slumped while participating in the high-stakes game.
In a statement signed by Vice-Chancellor, Professor Timothy A. Anake, the institution attributed his death to an undisclosed underlying heart condition, dismissing allegations of negligence or inadequate medical care.
According to the university, the student had withdrawn from the match after complaining of leg pain and fatigue. His condition reportedly deteriorated shortly after, as he began experiencing breathing difficulties. He was rushed by fellow students to the university’s medical centre, where medical personnel administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) using an automated external defibrillator (AED). However, efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. The management, the statement added, remained present throughout the incident and provided support to the bereaved family.
However, some students have disputed the university’s account, alleging that critical medical supplies, including oxygen and nebulizers, were unavailable at the time of the emergency. They also claimed that prayers were prioritised over immediate medical intervention.
Responding to the claims, the Vice-Chancellor maintained that there was no shortage of medical personnel or equipment during the response.
Meanwhile, a statement attributed to the deceased’s family raised concerns over discrepancies between the university’s account and eyewitness reports. The family questioned the speed at which conclusions were reached without an independent investigation, highlighting unresolved issues such as the timeline of events, the student’s condition upon arrival at the medical facility, and the adequacy of the care provided.
They stated that efforts are ongoing to review medical records and eyewitness testimonies in order to establish an unbiased account of what transpired, noting that a clear medical explanation has yet to be obtained. The family emphasised its commitment to seeking truth and accountability, while calling for transparency from all parties involved.