The Great Ife Students’ Union of Obafemi Awolowo University has confirmed the death of a student in the Faculty of Dentistry while the search continues for missing student Dorcas Oseghale.

In a statement dated August 13, 2025, the Union described the death as a tragic loss that has deeply shaken the university community. According to the statement, the news came while the Union was still working with relevant authorities in the search for Oseghale, who has been missing for five days.

“Our heartfelt condolences go to the family, friends and peers of the deceased. We specifically commiserate with the Dental Students’ Association as they navigate this profound tragedy within the department,” the Union said.

The statement highlighted the pressures of academic life, urging students to remember that they are not alone and encouraging them to seek support when needed. It stressed that mental health challenges are real and that the university health centre offers confidential counselling services to students at any time.

The Union also pledged to continue advocating for better mental health resources and to work towards ending the stigma surrounding such conversations. It called on university management, staff, the health centre and the Division of Student Affairs to join efforts in preventing similar tragedies in the future.

The statement was issued by Public Relations Officer Olowosile Joseph Oreoluwa and signed by Secretary General Habeeb Oke Isa and President Adelani David Oluwatodimu.