Itsekiri elders descended upon Ajayi Crowther University in Oyo State on Wednesday, May 29, to reclaim the body of their son, Alex Timileyin. Timileyin was reportedly beaten to death by his schoolmates under circumstances that have sent shockwaves through the community.
Leading the delegation was Prince Yemi Emiko, the deceased’s uncle, who, along with other Itsekiri leaders, made a poignant visit to the scene of the tragedy—the hostel where Timileyin’s life was brutally cut short. The group then proceeded to a meeting with the university’s management, seeking answers and accountability for the horrific incident.
Their somber journey also took them to the morgue where Timileyin’s body was being held. Yemi Otuedon, a member of the delegation, expressed grave concerns about the condition of the morgue, describing it as non-functional and pointing out that Timileyin’s was the only body present. Otuedon recounted the heartbreaking state of the body, noting it had swollen considerably and bore numerous marks of violence, a stark testament to the brutality he suffered.
The state police command has yet to issue a statement on the incident, leaving many questions unanswered and the community in a state of distress and anticipation.
Previously, reports emerged detailing the horrific circumstances of Timileyin’s death. On Saturday, May 25, 2024, he was allegedly subjected to a fatal beating by fellow students within the confines of Shepherd Inn, a hostel on the university campus. A disturbing video that surfaced online, now widely circulated, depicts the young man writhing in pain on the floor as other students mercilessly struck him with sticks. This video has not only intensified public outcry but also highlighted the urgent need for justice and reform.
In response to the tragic event, the university administration acted swiftly to expel the students implicated in the assault. These individuals have been handed over to the police, as the institution attempts to distance itself from the actions of a few and demonstrate a commitment to the safety and well-being of its students.
The visit by the Itsekiri elders underscores the gravity of the situation and the deep sense of loss felt by the community. Their demands for the return of Timileyin’s body are not just a quest for closure but also a cry for justice and accountability. The incident has ignited discussions about student safety, the responsibilities of educational institutions, and the broader implications of violence within academic environments.
