The tragic death of a 200-level Computer Science student, identified as Paul Thinker, at Bowen University, Iwo, Osun State, has sent shockwaves through the institution and the surrounding community. The young student was fatally stabbed by unknown assailants on the night of January 22, 2025, prompting immediate action from both the university management and the Osun State Police Command. The incident, reported at the Iwo Divisional Police Headquarters late Wednesday night by the university’s Chief Security Officer, Akindoyo Joseph, has spurred a collaborative investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice and address the underlying security concerns that led to this devastating event.
The Osun State Police Command, through its spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, confirmed the commencement of an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Paul’s death. Detectives are working diligently to identify and apprehend those responsible for the stabbing. The police are actively pursuing leads, collecting evidence, and interviewing potential witnesses to piece together the events of that fateful night. The prompt response of the police, as acknowledged by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Havillah Aliyu, offers a glimmer of hope amidst the prevailing atmosphere of grief and anxiety. The collaborative effort between the university and law enforcement aims to ensure a swift and thorough investigation that will bring closure to the victim’s family and restore a sense of security to the campus community.
Bowen University’s management has taken decisive steps to address the tragic incident and prevent future occurrences. In the wake of Paul’s death, the university convened an emergency Senate meeting, culminating in the formation of a three-member committee tasked with assisting the police investigation. This committee will act as a liaison between the university and law enforcement, gathering information, and facilitating communication to ensure a seamless flow of information crucial to the investigation’s success. This proactive approach underscores the university’s commitment to uncovering the truth and bringing the perpetrators to justice. Furthermore, the university has initiated measures to bolster campus security, including increasing manpower and collaborating with the police and other security agencies to enhance patrols in and around the university.
The university management has also extended its support to the grieving family of the deceased student. A meeting between the family members and the university management took place on campus on Thursday, January 23, 2025, offering an opportunity for condolence, information sharing, and collaborative discussions on how to navigate the challenging period ahead. The university’s commitment to supporting the family during this difficult time reflects its compassion and dedication to its students’ well-being, extending beyond the academic realm to provide emotional and logistical support in times of crisis.
While the university community grapples with the tragic loss, there is a palpable sense of cautious hope as they await the outcome of the police investigation. The university’s commitment to transparency and cooperation with law enforcement, coupled with the enhanced security measures, aims to restore a sense of safety and security to the campus. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of students and the critical need for robust security measures within educational institutions. The university’s response demonstrates a commitment to learning from this tragedy and implementing strategies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The tragic death of Paul Thinker has cast a long shadow over Bowen University. The collaborative efforts of the university management, the police, and the community at large are focused on ensuring justice for the deceased student and implementing measures to enhance campus safety. The incident underscores the importance of proactive security measures, timely investigations, and unwavering support for victims and their families in the face of such tragedies. As the investigation unfolds, the Bowen University community remains united in its pursuit of justice and its commitment to creating a safer and more secure environment for all its members.
