Covenant University has provided an official account of the circumstances surrounding the death of one of its students, Toluwase Jesutunmise Emmanuel, who passed away following a medical emergency during a football training session on campus.
In a statement issued on April 8 and signed by the Vice-Chancellor, Timothy A. Anake, the institution explained that the incident occurred on Monday, April 6.
The university stated that Jesutunmise had been actively participating in a student football training exercise before stepping aside from the game to rest, after reportedly complaining of leg pain and fatigue. Shortly after, his teammates observed that he was struggling to breathe.
He was quickly transported to the university’s Medical Centre, situated opposite the training ground. However, by the time he arrived at the facility, the school disclosed that he had already stopped breathing.
Medical staff immediately initiated emergency procedures, including the use of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and an automated external defibrillator (AED), in an effort to revive him. Despite these interventions, all attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.
The institution confirmed that he was later pronounced dead, attributing the cause to a previously undiagnosed heart-related condition.
Responding to concerns raised about possible negligence, the university firmly stated that there was no failure on the part of its medical personnel. It maintained that all required medical equipment was available at the time and was appropriately deployed during the emergency.
The management further noted that university officials remained present at the Medical Centre from the moment the incident occurred until the arrival of the student’s parents. They also stayed with the family to offer support during the immediate aftermath of the tragedy.
Describing the incident as deeply distressing, the university expressed its sympathy to the bereaved family, emphasizing that the loss extends beyond the institution and represents a broader loss to society.
The school also acknowledged the concern shown by members of the public and called for continued empathy and support for the grieving family during this difficult period.
What you should know
The death of a student during routine physical activity highlights the importance of early detection of underlying health conditions, particularly heart-related issues that may not show obvious symptoms.
Institutions often provide emergency medical response systems, but such cases show that rapid intervention may not always prevent fatal outcomes. Covenant University stated that all emergency protocols were followed, including CPR and AED use, and denied any negligence.
The incident has drawn public attention to student health screening, emergency preparedness, and the need for awareness of hidden medical risks among young people engaging in sports.
