500-Level Covenant University Student Dies After Football Match Breathing Complications Collapse

Toluwase Jesutunmise Emmanuel, a 500-level Building Technology student at Covenant University (CU) in Ota, Ogun State, died after collapsing during a football match on campus.

In a statement signed by Vice-Chancellor Professor Timothy A. Anake, the university attributed his d+ath to an undisclosed underlying heart condition and dismissed claims of negligence or inadequate medical care.

Tunmise abandoned the Chancellor’s Cup match due to leg pain and tiredness, according to the statement. Soon after, his condition worsened as he experienced breathing difficulties. Fellow students rushed him to the university’s medical centre, where medical personnel reportedly administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) using an automated external defibrillator (AED), but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. The university added that its management team remained present throughout the incident and supported the family.

Some students, however, contested this report, claiming that necessary supplies like nebulizers and oxygen were not available, and claiming that prayers were prioritised over urgent medical care. The Vice-Chancellor maintained that there was no shortage of staff or equipment. Meanwhile, a statement attributed to the deceased’s family raised concerns about discrepancies between the university’s account and eyewitness reports. The family questioned the speed at which conclusions were announced without an independent investigation and pointed to unresolved issues, including the timeline of events, his condition when help arrived, and the adequacy of the medical response.

They stated that they are investigating medical data and eyewitness accounts in order to obtain an unbiased assessment, noting that they have yet to acquire a clear medical explanation. Emphasising their commitment to truth and accountability, the family stated they are prepared to take necessary steps to fully understand the circumstances and urged transparency from all parties.