Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Anyigba, Kogi State, has officially addressed the tragic and controversial death of one of its senior lecturers, Dr Olabode Abimbola Ibikunle, who died on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, while allegedly in a hotel room with a 200-level student of the university, Gloria Samuel.
In a statement, the university expressed deep sorrow over the lecturer’s sudden death and cautioned against public speculation while investigations are ongoing.
“Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, expresses deep sorrow over the unfortunate passing of Mr Olabode Abimbola Ibikunle, a lecturer in the Department of Social Science Education,” the statement read.
“His sudden demise, in the company of Miss Glory Ojochegbe Samuel (24GE1034) of the same Department, is a tragic and disturbing occurrence that has understandably generated public concern and interest.”
The university confirmed that the case is currently under investigation by the appropriate authorities and called for restraint in public commentary.
“We, therefore, kindly urge the public and the media to refrain from speculations or drawing premature conclusions until the facts are fully established.”
Reacting to viral social media posts linking other students to the incident, the university condemned what it described as the “spread of unfounded associations.”
“We are also aware of some unverified reports linking the names of other students, including Miss Bello Yahaya Lubabat of the Department of Educational Administration and Planning, to the incident.
“The University firmly dissociates Miss Bello Yahaya Lubabat and other students from the matter and cautions against the spread of unfounded associations that may harm the reputations of innocent persons.”
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and justice, the university urged responsible reporting from the media.
“Prince Abubakar Audu University remains committed to upholding the values of truth, fairness, and justice, and we respectfully appeal for restraint and responsible reportage as investigations continue.”
It would be recalled that reports had surfaced earlier in the week that Dr Ibikunle died during a suspected sexual encounter with a female student at a hotel in Anyigba.
The Kogi State Police Command confirmed the incident on Friday. According to police spokesperson SP William Aya, the hotel manager, Moses Friday, reported that Gloria Samuel, a 22-year-old 200-level student, had rushed to the reception in distress, claiming that the lecturer had collapsed after their encounter.
Dr Ibikunle was later confirmed dead at a nearby hospital. Aya described the event as “unfortunate” and noted that an autopsy had been conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
While investigations are ongoing, unconfirmed reports suggest that the lecturer may have consumed multiple energy drinks prior to the incident.
The police say further action will be taken once the investigation is complete.
