By Trend News Line 2024-05-09 13:07:06.
The controversy surrounding the sudden death of Joshua Daniel, a 100-level student of Veritas University, Bwari, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), continues to escalate as new details emerge. The National Hospital in Abuja has released the result of the autopsy conducted on the deceased, shedding light on the cause of death. Meanwhile, a law firm called A&G Solomon Chambers has written to the Minister of Education, Tahir Mamman, seeking intervention in the investigation of what they describe as the mysterious circumstances surrounding the student’s death.
The autopsy report revealed that Joshua Daniel died from “asphyxia,” a condition where the body is deprived of oxygen, leading to unconsciousness or death. This finding contradicts the university’s initial claim that the student collapsed and died while exercising in the gym. The parents of the deceased, Daniel Ejigbo and Ifeoma Ejigbo, are accusing the university of negligence and a cover-up, pointing to evidence of “stab wounds” found on their son’s body.
In response to these allegations, the university has vehemently denied any wrongdoing, describing the accusations as “unconscionable.” The university authorities claim that they made every effort to save Joshua’s life but were unsuccessful. They have urged the police to release the autopsy report to the public, stating that they have nothing to hide and appealing for respect for the deceased student’s memory.
The FCT police command has launched an investigation into the case, and the university has requested transparency in the process. The parents of the late student are calling for a thorough investigation into the university’s alleged negligence and cover-up, as well as measures to ensure the safety of all students on campus.
Speaking to Premium Times, Mrs Ejigbo, the mother of the deceased, recounted her last conversation with her son and expressed shock at the events that followed. Mr Ejigbo, the father, criticized the university for its handling of the situation, citing insensitivity and lack of cooperation with the police investigation.
The autopsy report, dated 6 May, revealed that Joshua’s death was caused by a combination of “spinal cord injury” and “blunt trauma.” This finding has raised further questions about the circumstances leading to the student’s death.
In response to inquiries, the Vice-Chancellor of Veritas University, Hyacinth Ichoku, maintained that Joshua collapsed and died while exercising in the gym. He refuted claims of a cover-up and assured the public that the university followed proper procedures in handling the situation.
As the investigation into Joshua Daniel’s death continues, both the university and the parents are seeking answers and justice. The case has sparked national attention and calls for accountability in ensuring the safety and well-being of students in Nigerian universities..
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