- A Covenant University student had died after collapsing during a football training session on campus
- Medical personnel had attempted resuscitation, but he was later confirmed dead, with a suspected heart condition
- The university had denied negligence, stating that proper emergency procedures and equipment were utilised
A 500-level student of Covenant University, Toluwase Jesutunmise, has died after collapsing during a football training session on campus, sparking grief and debate within the university community.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Vice-Chancellor, Timothy Anake, the tragic incident occurred on Monday, April 6, 2026.
Jesutunmise, described as a diligent and vibrant student in the Department of Building Technology, had participated in a routine football training session before stepping out to rest. He reportedly complained of leg pain and fatigue prior to leaving the pitch.
Moments later, his teammates noticed that he was gasping for breath and quickly rushed him to the university’s medical centre emergency unit, located close to the playing field. However, he reportedly stopped breathing before arriving at the facility.
The university explained that although he was brought in without signs of life, medical personnel immediately commenced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), including the use of an automated external defibrillator. Despite these efforts, he could not be revived and was subsequently certified clinically dead.
Preliminary indications, according to the university, suggest that the student may have had an undisclosed underlying heart condition, which could have contributed to the sudden collapse.
The incident has generated reactions among students and on social media, with some alleging that the medical centre lacked adequate emergency response measures, including oxygen support. These claims have raised concerns about the institution’s healthcare readiness.
However, the Vice-Chancellor firmly denied any negligence, stating that all necessary equipment was available and properly utilised during the emergency response. He emphasised that medical personnel acted promptly and in accordance with established procedures.
“We wish to confirm that there was no form of negligence in the response of the medical personnel or a shortage of any required equipment,” the statement said.
Anake also noted that the university’s management remained present at the medical centre throughout the incident, offering support to the student’s family upon their arrival.
The university expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family, describing Jesutunmise’s death as a profound loss to the institution and the wider society. The incident has also reignited conversations around student health, emergency preparedness, and the importance of medical screenings in higher institutions.