A 500-level student of Covenant University, identified as Jesutunmise Emmanuel, has died following a medical emergency that occurred during a football training session on campus.
The incident, which happened on April 6, 2026, reportedly began after the student complained of fatigue and leg pain while playing. He was said to have stepped out of the game to rest before his condition worsened.
According to a statement released by the university’s management, Emmanuel began gasping for breath shortly after leaving the pitch, prompting his colleagues to rush him to the institution’s medical centre.
However, the development has sparked widespread reactions online, with some social media users alleging medical negligence. Claims circulated that the university’s medical facility lacked oxygen and failed to provide adequate care, with some even alleging that prayers were offered instead of urgent medical intervention.
Reacting to the controversy, the Vice-Chancellor, Timothy Anake, described the incident as an “unfortunate loss” and dismissed allegations of negligence.
”Jesutunmise, a diligent and vibrant student, participated in a student’s football training session on campus. He stepped out of the game to rest after he was said to have complained of leg pains and being tired,” the statement reads.
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“In a short while, his football mates observed that he was gasping for breath, and they responded swiftly by taking him to the Medical Centre’s emergency unit, which was directly opposite the playing field.
“However, he had stopped breathing by the time he arrived at the facility.
‘Though he was brought in dead, the doctors responded immediately by administering cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with an automated external defibrillator (AED).
“However, all efforts to resuscitate Jesutunmise were unsuccessful.
“Subsequently, he was certified clinically dead due to a prior undisclosed heart condition.”
The university also refuted claims that its medical team failed to act appropriately or lacked essential equipment.
“We wish to confirm that there was no form of negligence in the response of the medical personnel or a shortage of any required equipment for the treatment,” the statement added.
“The management of the University, led by the Vice-Chancellor, was at the Medical Centre from the time of the unfortunate event until the parents arrived, and remained with the family until he was laid to rest.
“The entire Covenant University community extends our deepest condolences to the family for this loss.
“This is also a loss for the University and the entire society, which was deprived of the special gift that Jesutunmise represents.
“We thank the general public for your concern and support at this time. Please keep the family in your prayers as they navigate this difficult period.”