By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

Tragedy struck on Friday as a 100-level student of the Department of Business Administration, University of Ilesa, Osun State, Gbolahan Ojolo, was electrocuted while playing a game on his mobile phone.

In a statement issued by the University Registrar, Mr. Funsho Ojo, and made available to journalists in Osogbo, the institution expressed deep sorrow over the incident, which occurred on the evening of Friday, April 18, 2025.

The unfortunate incident happened at a private hostel near the Prototype Engineering Development Institute (PEDI) junction, where Gbolahan was said to have been charging his phone while playing a game.

Eyewitnesses recounted that the electrocution was triggered by a lightning strike during a thunderstorm, cutting short the young student’s life in a most devastating manner.

Upon learning of the incident, the University authorities swiftly contacted the Police, and after the necessary clearance, Gbolahan’s remains were conveyed to the morgue at Wesley Guild Hospital, Ilesa.

Confirming the incident, the Police have launched a full-scale investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the electrocution.

In a swift show of compassion, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Taiwo Asaolu; the Registrar, Mr. Funsho Ojo; the Dean of Student Affairs; the Dean, Faculty of Management Sciences; the Head of Department, Business Administration; and the Area Commander of Police were all on ground to receive the father of the deceased, who was immediately informed and travelled down to Ilesa.

The University management, while mourning the irreparable loss, has pledged full support to the grieving family and assured them of standing by them through this harrowing period.

“This is a painful and heartbreaking loss for us all,” the statement read. “The entire University community is in mourning. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Gbolahan’s family, his friends, classmates, and the Department of Business Administration. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”