AAUA Students Protest Serial Killings in Akungba, Demand Justice and Government Intervention

Tension escalated in Akungba Akoko, Ondo State, on Saturday as students of Adekunle Ajasin University (AAUA) stormed the streets in protest over the recent alleged killings of their fellow students by residents of the host community. The peaceful demonstration followed the shocking discovery of the lifeless body of Joy Adeyemi, a student of Human Kinetics, who was reportedly murdered by her boyfriend, an indigene of the town. The incident, students say, is the latest in a string of tragedies that have claimed the lives of AAUA students.

According to reports, the suspect, now on the run, allegedly stabbed Joy to death on Tuesday and left her body locked in his room. Her body was discovered days later after neighbours noticed a foul odour. Joy, who operated a Point-of-Sale (PoS) business in the area, was said to have had her business funds stolen by the suspect after the gruesome act. This follows the recent abduction and killing of two other students — Andrel Okah and John Abba — just three weeks ago, a case which had already sparked outrage within the university community.

During Saturday’s protest, students marched with placards bearing messages like “Stop killing us, AAUA students,” “Say no to student killings in Akungba,” and “The state government must act now.” Protesters called on the Ondo State Government and security agencies to address the pattern of violence against students. “If nothing is done, this may lead to a serious crisis. Our lives are not safe in this town anymore,” said one protester identified simply as Kunle.

In a swift response, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), through a joint statement signed by its Ondo State JCC Chairman Adekanye Adeboye and Secretary Oladele Emmanuel, issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the government and relevant agencies to apprehend the suspects, enforce security measures, and prevent further loss of student lives. The group condemned the recurring killings and urged authorities to prioritise student safety within and around the university environment.

Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, said three suspects had already been arrested, while efforts to apprehend others, including the prime suspect, were ongoing. Meanwhile, the university’s Head of Media and Protocol, Victor Akinpelumi, appealed for calm, urging students not to take laws into their hands and to allow law enforcement officers to carry out a thorough investigation.