The University of Ilesa community was plunged into mourning following the tragic death of Gbolahan Ojolo, a 100-level Business Administration student, on Friday, April 18, 2025. Ojolo reportedly died from electrocution, allegedly caused by a lightning strike while he was playing a game on his charging mobile phone in his off-campus residence near the Prototype Engineering Development Institute (PEDI) junction. The incident occurred during a thunderstorm, highlighting the inherent dangers associated with using electronic devices during such weather conditions. The sudden and unexpected nature of Ojolo’s death has left the university community reeling in shock and grief, underscoring the fragility of life and the unpredictable nature of unforeseen circumstances.
The official confirmation of Ojolo’s death came from the University Registrar, Funso Ojo, who issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and regret over the tragic loss. The statement detailed the circumstances surrounding the incident, confirming that Ojolo was electrocuted while his phone was charging. The university’s prompt response involved notifying the police, who subsequently initiated an investigation into the incident. After obtaining the necessary clearances, Ojolo’s remains were transferred to the morgue at Wesley Guild Hospital in Ilesa. The university’s statement also conveyed its commitment to supporting Ojolo’s family during their time of grief, emphasizing the institution’s solidarity and compassion in the face of this tragedy.
The incident has prompted renewed discussions about electrical safety, especially during thunderstorms. While the exact sequence of events leading to Ojolo’s electrocution is still under investigation, the circumstances suggest the potential dangers of using electronic devices connected to power sources during lightning storms. Lightning strikes can cause power surges that can overload electrical circuits and devices, leading to electrocution. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of taking precautions during thunderstorms, such as unplugging electronic devices and avoiding contact with electrical appliances. The university’s response, including the police investigation, aims to shed further light on the incident and potentially prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The University of Ilesa’s commitment to supporting Ojolo’s family reflects the institution’s recognition of the profound impact of this loss. The university’s statement emphasized its intention to stand by the family during this difficult period, offering both emotional and practical support. This gesture underscores the university’s role not only as an educational institution but also as a community that cares for its members. The outpouring of grief and condolences from the university community, including students, faculty, and staff, demonstrates the collective sense of loss and the shared desire to provide comfort and support to Ojolo’s loved ones.
The tragic incident highlights the need for increased awareness and education about electrical safety, particularly among students residing in off-campus accommodations. While universities often provide safety guidelines and regulations for on-campus housing, ensuring the safety of students living off-campus requires a collaborative effort involving the university, landlords, and students themselves. This incident could serve as a catalyst for enhanced safety measures, including regular inspections of electrical installations in off-campus housing, educational campaigns about electrical safety practices, and the provision of resources for students to report potential electrical hazards.
Gbolahan Ojolo’s untimely death serves as a poignant reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of safety precautions. The incident has left an indelible mark on the University of Ilesa community, prompting reflection on the unforeseen circumstances that can lead to tragedy. As the university community mourns the loss of a promising young student, the focus now shifts to supporting Ojolo’s grieving family and learning from this devastating event to prevent future tragedies. The ongoing investigation will hopefully provide a clearer understanding of the incident and contribute to enhancing electrical safety awareness and practices, both within the university community and beyond.
