UI Medical student death confirmed after suspected insecticide ingestion in Ibadan as advocates caution against harmful suicide-themed content

A 300-level medical student of the University of Ibadan has died at the University College Hospital, Ibadan following suspected ingestion of an insecticide, hospital authorities confirmed on Monday.

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The student, whose identity was withheld, was reportedly discovered on Sunday night on the ground floor of Nnamdi Azikiwe Hall by a fellow undergraduate, who found him disoriented and in critical condition.

Sources within the institution said the student admitted to consuming an insecticide before losing consciousness. Roommates immediately alerted hall management, prompting emergency arrangements through the Students’ Union transport service to Jaja Clinic within the university.

Medical personnel at the clinic reportedly stabilised the student using oxygen support and intravenous fluids before transferring him to the emergency unit of the University College Hospital, where doctors placed him on life support.

Public Relations Officer of the hospital, Funmi Adetuyibi, confirmed the fatal outcome.

“The boy passed away on Sunday evening. The student was brought in based on the report that he consumed an insecticide, and the UCH responded accordingly. Sadly, he did not survive,” Adetuyibi said.

The student’s parents, who travelled from Akure in Ondo State, were reportedly present at the hospital prior to his death.

Family members raised concerns about possible poisoning during preliminary inquiries, although roommates maintained that the student had acknowledged ingesting the substance.

Peers also disclosed that the deceased had recently withdrawn from social interactions, attended fewer lectures and had reduced communication with family members in the weeks preceding the incident.

The tragedy has renewed concern among mental health advocates over growing exposure to harmful online narratives surrounding self-harm.

The advocacy group Suicide Is No Solution Initiative issued a statement condemning the increasing circulation of suicide-themed skits on social media platforms, warning that such portrayals could undermine public awareness campaigns aimed at protecting vulnerable individuals.

The group’s Project Coordinator, Toye Arulogun, described the trend as troubling, stressing that suicide-related issues represent a serious public health concern that should not be trivialised for entertainment purposes.

The warning followed recent online controversies involving content creator King Mitchy and influencer VeryDarkMan, who appeared in separate skits depicting the consumption of harmful substances.

Arulogun said advocacy organisations remain committed to strengthening public enlightenment efforts while encouraging responsible digital content that promotes emotional wellbeing and social responsibility.

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Authorities have not announced further investigative actions as of press time.