Tragedy has once again struck the academic community in Ondo State as a female undergraduate, Joy Adeyemi, has reportedly been murdered by her boyfriend under yet unclear circumstances.
Joy, a student of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), was found dead in her off-campus residence late Saturday, sparking widespread outrage and mourning among students and staff of the institution.
Eyewitnesses and local residents say the boyfriend, whose identity is yet to be disclosed by the police, was last seen with the deceased before her lifeless body was discovered. Sources within the student community allege the relationship between the two had been turbulent, with repeated reports of domestic disputes.
According to a senior police officer who confirmed the incident under anonymity, the suspect fled the scene shortly after the crime but has since been declared wanted. “We are actively tracking the suspect and investigations are ongoing,” the officer stated.
The Ondo State Police Command is expected to issue a formal statement later today.
This incident comes amid growing concern over a disturbing pattern of intimate partner violence involving university students in the state. Just weeks ago, another female student from a tertiary institution in the region was also reportedly killed by her lover.
The Student Union Government of AAUA has condemned the killing in strong terms, calling for swift justice. “We are devastated and enraged. This culture of silence and violence against female students must end,” a union spokesperson said.
Meanwhile, advocacy groups are once again urging state authorities and university managements to intensify awareness campaigns on gender-based violence and to provide safer accommodations and support services for students, especially young women.
Joy Adeyemi’s body has been deposited at a nearby morgue for autopsy as investigations continue.
