The management of the Federal University of Environment and Technology (FUET) has dismissed what it described as an orchestrated media campaign surrounding the death of one of its students, Ebirien Godwin, insisting that security investigations concluded the incident was a tragic accident.
In a statement signed by the Registrar and Secretary to Council, Dr. Monday D. Mpigi, the university expressed shock and sadness over the claims being circulated by individuals allegedly speaking on behalf of the deceased student’s family.
Ebirien, a freshman in the Department of Software Engineering, Faculty of Natural and Applied Sciences, with matriculation number FT/2025/79022, reportedly died following an incident at the university hostel.
According to the management, the student was immediately rushed to a nearby clinic after the incident but was pronounced dead by the attending doctor. The matter was subsequently reported to security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services, which commenced investigations to determine the cause of death.
The university said findings from the security agencies indicated that the deceased had come down from the second floor of his hostel to join other students celebrating and splashing water on each other late at night. Despite alleged attempts by his roommates to dissuade him due to the late hour, he reportedly joined the gathering, slipped on a wet surface along the corridor, and sustained a fatal head injury.
Management stated that in the absence of contrary evidence, it stands by the reports of the security agencies, maintaining that there was no foul play or cover-up.
The statement further noted that the university had met with the deceased’s parents and relatives, informed them of developments, and deposited his remains in the mortuary. According to the management, the family had also requested an autopsy to further clarify the cause of death.
FUET described allegations of conspiracy and cover-up as unfounded and harmful, particularly to a young institution still striving to establish itself. The university added that the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Prince Chinedu Mmom, had held discussions with the bereaved family and assured them of the institution’s cooperation.
While extending condolences to the family, the management reiterated its commitment to transparency and pledged continued collaboration with security and medical authorities to ensure full closure on the matter.
The university also reassured staff, students, and visitors of the safety of the campus, stating that safety and security measures have been reviewed to prevent a recurrence of such an incident.
FUET appealed to members of the public and social media users to respect the privacy of the grieving family and allow them to mourn in dignity.
