The search for a missing Obafemi Awolowo University student has entered its fifth day, with authorities escalating efforts and formally involving state police in what has become an increasingly urgent case that has gripped the campus community.
Dorcas Oseghale, a 300-level chemistry student with matriculation number CHM/2021/165, was last seen on the evening of August 6, 2025, around 8:00 p.m., according to university officials. The student, who resides at Adesanmi House on Ibadan Road, had informed acquaintances she was going out to purchase food near the Students’ Village along the Ede Road axis of the university.
What began as concern among dormitory mates has now mobilized both university security and state law enforcement agencies. The case was first brought to university attention on August 7, around 3:00 p.m., through social media platforms, triggering an immediate response from campus security personnel.
University spokesman Abiodun Olarewaju confirmed that the matter escalated quickly through proper channels. By 6:10 p.m. on August 7, a formal report was filed with the university’s Security Unit by Chemistry Department students accompanied by Oseghale’s roommate, Akinkuade Omobolanle Beatrice, who studies Agricultural Extension.
The university’s measured response reflects both institutional protocol and the gravity of the situation. Recognizing the limitations of campus resources, university security assigned three officers to work with students in presenting initial findings to the Nigerian Police, an agency better equipped with the manpower and investigative expertise required for such complex cases.
Vice Chancellor Professor Simeon Bamire has publicly commended the swift action taken by students while appealing to law enforcement and security agencies to deploy comprehensive resources in the search operation. His statement underscores the institution’s commitment to student safety while acknowledging the collaborative effort needed to resolve the case.
The timeline of events reveals a systematic approach to what initially appeared to be a routine late return. From the first social media alerts to formal police involvement within hours, the response demonstrates both the tight-knit nature of the university community and the seriousness with which authorities are treating the disappearance.
As the search extends beyond the campus boundaries, authorities are casting a wider net for information. The public has been urged to contact the nearest police station or the university’s Security Unit with any relevant details regarding Oseghale’s whereabouts.
The case highlights ongoing concerns about student safety in Nigerian universities, where campus security remains a persistent challenge. OAU, one of Nigeria’s premier institutions, has faced various security issues in recent years, making this incident particularly significant for the academic community.
With Oseghale’s phone lines remaining unreachable since her disappearance, the investigation now relies heavily on witness accounts, security footage, and public assistance. The involvement of state police suggests authorities are treating this as more than a simple case of a student staying out late, indicating genuine concern for the missing student’s welfare.
As the search continues, the university community remains on edge, with students and faculty alike hoping for Oseghale’s safe return while grappling with questions about campus security and student safety protocols.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Dorcas Oseghale, a 300-level chemistry student at Obafemi Awolowo University, has been missing for five days after going to buy food near campus on August 6, 2025. The case has been escalated to the state police due to the seriousness of the situation. Her phone remains unreachable, and authorities are urgently seeking public assistance.
