Tragedy has struck the University of Ilorin as a 200-level Mass Communication student has allegedly taken his own life due to financial struggles.
The incident occurred last week at the student’s residence in the Oke-Odo area of Tanke, Ilorin, while his roommate was away attending lectures. According to reports, the deceased consumed a poisonous substance, leaving behind a suicide note detailing his struggles and inability to cope with the country’s harsh economic realities.
A close friend, who spoke on condition of anonymity, shared:
"We returned to find his note, explaining how he could no longer bear the hardship. He had taken the substance and passed away."
Academically, the student was performing well, maintaining a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 4.5 before his untimely demise. However, sources reveal that he had been battling financial difficulties for some time.
A university official disclosed that the deceased was being sponsored by his widowed mother, a retired schoolteacher, following the loss of his father a few years ago. Unfortunately, the worsening economic situation made it increasingly difficult for him to meet his financial obligations.
His roommate also confirmed the late student’s struggles, revealing that friends had been chipping in to support him with tuition and food expenses.
"We did our best to assist him, contributing money for his school fees and food, but it wasn’t enough," he said.
A senior university official, who spoke with journalists in Ilorin on Tuesday, described the event as shocking and deeply saddening.