Controversy over death of female Poly student
• School denies culpability as family, students fault pregnancy claim
CONTROVERSY has trailed the death of Ajayi Abimbola Adejoke, a female student of the Department of Leisure and Tourism, Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State. The 27- year- old student died in the school clinic on April 24, amid claims of negligence. Consequently, student bodies and family members have demanded for thorough investigation and justice.
The bodies in a letter jointly signed by the Student Union President of the Polytechnic, Thanni Damilare Abdullahi, Deputy Coordinator, National Association of Polytechnic Students ( NAPS), Southwest, Oloyede Hassan, Sports Director, National Association of Nigerian Students ( NANS), Southwest, Bammeke Solomon and National Association of Ogun State Students ( NAOSS), National Treasurer, Folarin Israel Goodness, alleged that the incident was not an isolated one.
According to them, reports suggest a pattern of indifference and neglect towards students seeking medical attention in the institution.
They claimed that despite being entrusted with the responsibility of providing medical care, the clinic staffs’ alleged disregard for human life has led to preventable tragedies.
The bodies called for a systemic change to ensure such tragic incidents do not reoccur in the future. “Students should feel safe and assured that their health and well- being are prioritised when seeking medical assistance on campus.
“The attempt by the school to cover up the incident by falsely claiming that the student was pregnant and using medications is deeply troubling.
“It highlights a disturbing trend where the school management prioritises protecting its reputation over welfare and truthfulness regarding students’ health and safety.
“This act of misinformation is not only unjust but also undermines the trust and confidence that students and the wider community have in the school administration.
It is unacceptable for the school to hastily conclude without conducting a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the student’s tragic demise,” they said.
The student bodies added: “It is high time relevant authorities intervened and held the school and its management accountable for their actions.
“There must be checks and balances in place to ensure that the interests of students are prioritised above all else, and that the t ruth prevails in matters concerning their wellbeing.
“The school must be compelled to conduct a transparent and unbiased investi gation into the incident, and any wrongdoing or negligence on the part of the staff must be met with appropriate disciplinary measures.
“Also, there is an urgent need for a thorough in vestigation into the circumstances surrounding these incidents. Those found guilty of negligence must face appropriate penalties to deter future occurrences and uphold the sanctity of human life.
“The resolve of the student body is firm, as we stand united in our demand for justice.
“W e refuse to accept complacency or indifference in the face of such gra ve injustices. The decision to confront this issue head- on reflects our unwa vering commitment to ensuring the safety and well- being of all students.”
Reacting, the Medical Director of the institution’s clinic, Dr. B. M. Jesusina, said the late student was brought to the Medical Centre after complaining of abdominal pains during her practical class.
“Due to the nature of her case being an emergency, she was quickly attended to without requesting her clinic card as she was brought to the ward and assisted by the security guard on duty.
“One of our doctors quickly attended to her while vital signs ( blood pressure and pulse) were taken by the nurses.
“Examination revealed a very pale lady ( from loss of blood), unrecordable blood pressure and the pregnancy test was positive.
“A possible diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy ( pregnancy outside the womb) to rule out criminal abortion was made. She was quickly taken in the school ambulance with one of our nurses and her boyfriend to the closest private clinic where an urgent abdominal scan was carried out on her. Her parents were duly informed through her boyfriend and asked them to come to llaro.