Ekiti varsity mourns after three die in post-convocation stampede

The management of Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere-Ekiti, has mourned the death of three persons in a stampede that occurred at a post-convocation party at a hotel in Ikere-Ekiti.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Registrar, Mrs Funmilola Adeusi, the management expressed regret over the deaths of two graduates and a student in the unfortunate incident, which occurred during a night party at a hotel in the town.

Recall that BOUESTI held its second convocation ceremony on its campus on Saturday, after which some graduates and students organised a night party at the Emirate Hotel, where the stampede and subsequent loss of three lives occurred.

Adeusi, in the statement, said: “Regrettably, we confirm that two of our graduands and one student lost their lives in this tragic occurrence.

“Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased during this profoundly difficult time.

“The university community mourns this painful loss and sympathises with the family and friends of all those affected,” she added.

The registrar, who clarified that the convocation proceedings were conducted peacefully, successfully, and without disruption, said: “The university remains committed to upholding the highest standards of safety, order, and integrity in all its activities.”

BOUESTI, in response to reports described as unfounded, stated: “We wish to categorically state that no stampede or violent incident occurred at the convocation venue or within the university premises during or after the ceremony.”

Adeusi explained that the unfortunate incident “took place at a private off-campus location, specifically at the Emirate Hotel, where some graduands independently organised a night party to celebrate their graduation.

“It was at the venue of the party that a fight reportedly broke out, leading to a stampede.”

The state police command had on Sunday night stated that preliminary investigations showed the incident occurred at about 1am at the Emirate Hotel during a stampede that followed a fight.

The command’s spokesperson, Sunday Abutu, disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had ordered an investigation into the incident.