The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Osun State, has announced an investigation into the death of 18-year-old medical student Timilehin Toromade, who reportedly passed away in his sleep.

The university confirmed the passing of the Part Three student in a statement signed by its Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, noting that Toromade is believed to have died in the early hours of Tuesday, January 6, 2026. According to the statement, the student, matriculation number CLI/2022/133, may have passed after 2 a.m., as one of his roommates reportedly opened the door for another student around that time.

The statement read in part:
"The Management of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, has received with profound shock and deep sorrow the devastating news of the sudden passing of an eighteen-year-old Part Three student of the College of Health Sciences, Department of Medicine and Surgery, who reportedly died in his sleep in the early hours of today, Tuesday, 6th of January, 2026."

In a condolence message, OAU Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simeon Bamire, extended sympathies to the family of the late student, his classmates, colleagues, and friends. Describing the incident as “deeply painful and distressing,” Bamire added:
"The entire university community grieves the untimely departure of a student who embraced the rigours of medical training with the hope of one day healing others and serving humanity. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of his peers and all who knew him. The loss of a young life filled with promise and potential is a tragedy beyond words."

The university assured the public that it is working closely with relevant authorities to fully understand the circumstances of the incident, following established medical procedures.

Additionally, the management said it is implementing support measures to assist students and members of the university community affected by the loss.
"At this moment of collective mourning, we call on students, staff, alumni, and friends of the institution to remain calm, compassionate, and prayerful, and to uphold the values of empathy and solidarity for which the Great Ife is renowned," the statement concluded.