(DDM) – A horrific incident occurred in Akungba-Akoko, Ondo State, as two students of Adekunle Ajasin University tragically drowned in a hotel swimming pool.
DDM gathered that the victims, Oludere Opeyemi, 22, and Adegbola Blessing, 19, were attending a party for newly matriculated students when the incident happened.
The state Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, confirmed the deaths in a statement released on Tuesday.
According to police reports, Blessing was first found unconscious in the pool around 8:00 pm on January 29, 2026.
He was rescued by the pool manager, administered first aid, regained consciousness, and was taken home by friends.
Shortly after, Oludere Opeyemi was discovered unconscious in the same swimming pool.
Opeyemi was promptly rescued and rushed to the State Hospital, Ikare-Akoko, where medical personnel later confirmed his death.
Tragically, Blessing also passed away in the early hours of January 30, 2026, despite initial signs of recovery.
Police operatives from the Akungba Divisional Police Station were immediately deployed to the scene to begin investigations.
The hotel manager, Ayomide Badejo, and the pool manager were invited for questioning as part of preliminary inquiries.
The case was subsequently transferred to the command’s monitoring unit for a discreet, thorough, and comprehensive investigation.
The remains of both students have been deposited at the State Hospital, Ikare-Akoko, morgue for preservation and autopsy.
Authorities are working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the drowning, including possible lapses in safety protocols at the hotel pool.
Hotel pools are increasingly popular venues for university parties in Ondo State, raising concerns about safety measures during such events.
Previous incidents in the region have highlighted the risks of inadequate supervision and the absence of certified lifeguards.
DSP Jimoh’s statement underscored the commitment of the police to conduct a meticulous investigation to prevent similar tragedies.
Community members and fellow students have expressed shock and grief over the sudden deaths, describing the event as a devastating loss to the university community.
The victims were reportedly active students who had just begun to settle into campus life, making the incident all the more tragic.
This double drowning raises urgent questions about safety standards in recreational facilities frequented by students across Ondo State.
Police have advised the public and students to exercise caution near swimming pools and to ensure that safety equipment and personnel are present during gatherings.
The Adekunle Ajasin University community, alongside state authorities, is expected to review safety guidelines for student events to avert future incidents.
Families of the deceased have called for justice and clarity on how the tragedy unfolded, emphasizing that accountability is critical.
As investigations continue, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of vigilance, safety enforcement, and emergency preparedness in public recreational spaces.
This tragedy has sparked nationwide conversations on student safety during social and recreational activities, with public calls for stronger regulations.
