OAU Dentistry Student Reportedly Dies by Suicide After Exam Results; Name Given as Ajibola Ibitayo in Some Reports

The Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) community is mourning a dentistry student who reportedly died by suicide shortly after the release of examination results, according to a statement issued by the university’s Dental Students’ Association (IFUDSA).

In its message signed by IFUDSA President Adebayo Idris, the association described the loss as “devastating,” urged students to look out for one another, and emphasized the importance of seeking professional help during periods of distress. Multiple outlets reproduced the statement on Wednesday, noting the timing of the tragedy in relation to the results release.

Several reports identified the student as Ajibola Ibitayo (also reported as Ibitayo Ajibola). While IFUDSA’s statement did not publish the name, local media citing campus sources have done so.

Coverage by regional and national platforms has focused on the mental-health pressures faced by students in competitive programmes such as dentistry, with the association pledging continued advocacy for student welfare and counselling support.

Statement excerpts and timeline

• IFUDSA confirmed the death in a Wednesday statement and linked it to the period following the release of examination results.
• The association called the loss “a painful reminder of the silent battles many students face,” and encouraged students to seek professional help when needed.

If you need to talk to someone (Nigeria)

• Safe Place Nigeria (She Writes Woman) — 24/7 toll-free: 0800 800 2000.
• Mentally Aware Nigeria Initiative (MANI) — 24/7 lines: 0809 111 6264 / 0811 168 0686.
• SURPIN (Suicide Research & Prevention Initiative) — national helpline (toll-free line and additional numbers listed).

Editor’s note: Details such as the student’s identity and background continue to appear in media reports; this article relies on IFUDSA’s formal statement and on named outlets that have cited the identity above.