FUNAAB Management Urges Students to Prioritize Safety Following Tragic Incident

The Management of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), has issued a critical appeal to students to remain calm, vigilant, and prioritize their safety amid troubling times. This call to action follows the tragic murder of Miss Christianah Idowu, a student who was killed in Lagos while returning from her internship.

In an exclusive statement to FUNAAB Bulletin, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, expressed deep condolences to Miss Idowu's family, the student body, and the entire university community. He acknowledged the profound sadness caused by the incident, underscoring the necessity of vigilance and caution in daily activities, both on and off campus.

Prof. Akinyemi revealed that the university has initiated several programs designed to educate students on personal safety and responsible decision-making. These initiatives aim to provide guidance on how to navigate various environments safely, particularly during holidays or internships. He also thanked the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, for his unwavering support to the grieving family during this challenging period.

“Students must understand that they represent FUNAAB wherever they go,” Prof. Akinyemi stressed, highlighting ongoing efforts to utilize technology and social media platforms to disseminate safety advice and keep students informed. He provided practical safety tips, urging students to be discerning in their associations, particularly within religious groups. He emphasized that personal safety should always take precedence, noting that Miss Idowu’s tragic death involved individuals from the same religious circle.

Prof. Akinyemi cautioned students against the allure of quick wealth, stating, “Money is not everything. It will come in due time, but chasing it through dangerous or illegitimate means can lead to devastating consequences.”

Echoing these sentiments, the Dean of Student Affairs, Prof. Festus Adeosun, described the incident as shocking and commended the University Management under Prof. Kehinde’s leadership for its strong support throughout this ordeal. He advised students to confide in trusted individuals, especially when traveling or meeting others, and to share their movements for safety reasons. He reassured students that the university, in collaboration with the Student Union Government (SUG), is actively working with the police to ensure justice for Miss Idowu.

Adding further context, the Assistant Chief Environmental Officer, Mr. Peter Bolarinwa, explained that the suspect and the deceased were not merely acquaintances but had grown up together and attended the same church, emphasizing the closeness of their relationship. On the day of the incident, Miss Idowu sought shelter in the suspect's home due to heavy rain, believing she was in a safe space.

Mr. Bolarinwa, known as the Chief Security Officer (CSO), stressed the importance of personal safety, urging everyone to inform their parents or close friends of their whereabouts. “This brings us to the issue of personal security. Be conscious of your environment, whether you're in familiar or unfamiliar territory,” he advised. He encouraged students to conduct environmental scanning, remaining vigilant to changes in behavior that could indicate potential danger.

The SUG President, Comrade Ibraheem Adeyemi, echoed the importance of personal security, urging students to stay alert and mindful of their surroundings. He reassured the student body that the university is committed to seeking justice for the deceased and is working with the relevant authorities.

Miss Christianah Idowu was laid to rest on September 19, 2024, in Lagos, after her body was exhumed from the suspect's family compound on September 16, 2024. The university community continues to mourn her loss, offering prayers for the peaceful repose of her soul.

In response to this tragedy, the Vice-Chancellor has introduced several safety and awareness programs aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future. As the university awaits the results of the ongoing investigation, students are reminded to remain vigilant, exercise caution, and share their whereabouts with trusted individuals. Your safety is the university’s responsibility.