The search for two missing students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, ended in heartbreak as their lifeless bodies were discovered in a forest near the Ondo-Ekiti boundary, three weeks after their disappearance.
Identified as Andrel Okah from the Department of History and International Studies and John Abba from the Department of Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, both students had not been seen attending lectures for over two weeks.
Concerned by their prolonged absence, classmates raised an alarm that eventually prompted a broader search.
The university’s Students Union Government President, Akeem Ologbon, in a statement released on Monday, expressed profound sorrow over the loss, noting that the news had plunged the academic community into mourning.
“The Union acted swiftly and responsibly the moment we were informed of the students’ disappearance, engaging with relevant security agencies to ensure a prompt response,” he stated.
“Specifically, we reached out to the anti-kidnapping squad in Akure, which has the mandate and expertise to handle such sensitive cases,” he said.
“In addition, we alerted all relevant security formations within the state. We can confirm that the newly appointed Commissioner of Police has been fully briefed on the situation and is taking the matter seriously.
“We also reached out to the Nigerian police (Scorpion squad) in Akure. These engagements were aimed at ensuring that the case received the attention it deserved and that a coordinated response was initiated across multiple security agencies.”
Mr. Ologbon also urged the student body to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified reports.
“As we continue to process this painful news, we urge all students and members of the university community to remain calm and avoid circulating unverified information. The Student Union is in close contact with official sources and will disseminate only accurate and confirmed updates as they become available.”
Despite the anguish caused by the incident, the SUG president emphasized the importance of unity and a firm resolve to seek justice.
“The Union assures every student and stakeholder that we are committed to ensuring that justice is pursued relentlessly,” he said.
“No stone will be left unturned until the truth is uncovered and accountability is achieved.”
While the Police Public Relations Officer in Ondo State, Olayinka Ayanlade, noted that he would address the issue at a later time, a source within the command confirmed the tragic development.
“It is sad to inform you that the two missing AAUA students have been killed by their suspected abductors. Their corpses have now been located, and our men are on the way to recover them,” the source disclosed.