In a heartbreaking incident, two students of the Federal Polytechnic, Ile Oluji, in Ondo State, Chukwu Athanasius and Oladokun Oyindamola, tragically lost their lives in an auto crash along the Akure-Ondo highway.
The fatal accident reportedly occurred when a Toyota car crushed their motorcycle, killing both students instantly.
The devastating news has sent shockwaves through the academic community and prompted a statement from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC) Ondo State Axis.
The statement, signed by the association’s chairman, Oluwarotimi Tobiloba Joshua, Secretary-General Oluwanishola Ajibola, and Public Relations Officer Kehinde Blessing, expressed deep sorrow over the loss.
“The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Council (JCC) Ondo State Axis is deeply saddened to learn of the tragic loss of two Federal Polytechnic Ile Oluji students in Akure due to an unfortunate accident,” the statement read.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and classmates of these young individuals. This is a devastating loss for the student community of Ondo State, and we are heartbroken by the news. The sudden and unexpected loss of these students is a devastating reminder of the fragility of life.”
The statement highlighted the impact the students had during their time at the institution, stating, “We mourn the loss of two young lives that were taken far too soon. Chukwu Athanasius and Oladokun Oyindamola were not just students, but individuals with unique talents, aspirations, and dreams. They had their whole lives ahead of them, and we can only imagine the great things they would have accomplished if given the chance.”
The association called for reflection on the incident, urging the community to prioritize safety.
“As we reflect on the lives of these young people, let us remember that every life is precious and every person has the right to live safely and peacefully,” the statement concluded, offering condolences to the grieving families.
Reacting to the incident, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Emergency Response, Prince Oriade Wellington Adebawo, condemned the reckless driving that led to the accident.
He extended his sympathy to the families and called on drivers to be more cautious, stressing the need for vigilance and adherence to safety regulations to prevent further tragedies.
The sudden demise of Chukwu Athanasius and Oladokun Oyindamola has left their families, friends, and the Federal Polytechnic community in deep mourning, as they grapple with the loss of two promising young lives.