Tragedy Strikes as 100-Level Student Dies from Electrocution Caused by Lightning in Osun State

A tragic incident has plunged the University of Ilesa, Osun State, into mourning following the sudden death of a 100-level student, Gbolahan Ojolo. The young undergraduate, enrolled in the Department of Business Administration, was reportedly electrocuted on Friday, April 18, 2025, in his off-campus hostel during a thunderstorm that involved a lightning strike.

According to a statement released on Saturday by the university’s Registrar, Mr. Funso Ojo, the incident occurred in the evening hours at a private hostel located near the Prototype Engineering Development Institute junction in Ilesa. Gbolahan was said to be using his mobile phone while charging it when the lightning struck, resulting in an electrocution that claimed his life instantly.

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Lightning Strike Triggers Fatal Electrocution

Initial reports suggest that Gbolahan had been playing a game on his mobile phone while it was plugged into an electrical socket when the thunderstorm occurred. The lightning strike allegedly created a surge that travelled through the power supply, ultimately leading to his electrocution.

The fatal event has sent shockwaves through the university and wider Ilesa community, especially as it involved a promising young student only just beginning his higher education journey.

Registrar Funso Ojo confirmed that the university authorities acted swiftly after learning of the incident. “The Management of the University of Ilesa deeply regrets to announce the tragic and untimely death of one of its students, Gbolahan Ojolo. The unfortunate incident occurred on the evening of Friday, April 18, 2025. Gbolahan was electrocuted while playing a game on his mobile phone, which was being charged in his room at a private hostel,” the statement read.

Police Investigation Underway

In accordance with standard procedure, the university promptly notified the police, who are now conducting a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding Gbolahan’s death.

“The police have since commenced a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident,” the Registrar added. “After due clearance was obtained, the remains of the deceased were taken to the morgue of the Wesley Guild Hospital in Ilesa.”

The statement did not indicate whether any structural or electrical faults were found at the hostel, nor whether any arrests had been made or liability established.

University Offers Support to Grieving Family

In response to the devastating loss, the University of Ilesa has assured the bereaved family of its full support. According to the Registrar, management is taking active steps to assist the Ojolo family during this period of mourning and has pledged to stand by them in the days ahead.

“The University of Ilesa has also made necessary arrangements to support the family during this moment of intense grief and will continue to stand by them through this difficult time,” Ojo said.

He further expressed the sorrow felt throughout the campus: “The entire University community mourns this painful loss and prays for the repose of Gbolahan’s soul. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, classmates, and the Department of Business Administration.”

Safety Concerns Amid Rainy Season

The tragic death of Gbolahan Ojolo raises fresh concerns about electrical safety and building standards in student hostels, especially during Nigeria’s rainy season when thunderstorms and lightning strikes are frequent. Experts have long warned against the use of mobile devices while charging during storms, as power surges from lightning strikes can be fatal when conducted through electrical outlets.

This incident serves as a grim reminder of the need for greater awareness and preventive measures, particularly in environments housing young and often uninformed students.

Students and hostel operators alike are being urged to take extra precautions, including unplugging devices during storms and ensuring that electrical installations comply with safety standards. The university community is also advocating for stricter oversight of private hostels to avoid similar tragedies in the future.

A Life Cut Short

Gbolahan Ojolo’s untimely death marks a heartbreaking moment for his family and the entire University of Ilesa. As classmates and friends mourn the loss of a young man with dreams and potential, the broader community reflects on the fragility of life and the unpredictable forces of nature.

Memorial arrangements are expected to be made in the coming days by the university in conjunction with the Ojolo family.