FUNAAB Gives Update On Student Poisoning Incident

The management of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), aims to address the recent article penned by Uthman Salami in Punch dated November 15, 2023, regarding the arrest of Oladokun Ayomide, a final-year student of FUNAAB, allegedly for poisoning his girlfriend and another lady. Our objective is to clarify the actual circumstances surrounding this incident and underscore the significance of responsible investigative journalism to prevent misinformation, disinformation, and sensationalism.

On November 9, 2023, the incident transpired when Ayomide unknowingly acquired a cake from an open store that contained a considerably high level of alcohol. This inadvertent consumption led to the unintended intoxication of those who partook in it. It is essential to note that Ayomide had no malicious intent, a fact affirmed by the medical examination conducted at our institution’s Health Centre.

FUNAAB is providing clarification regarding the report published by Punch Newspaper concerning the incident of poisoning involving one of its students.
The affected individuals were discharged from the hospital the subsequent day and even actively participated in their examinations on November 10, 2023. It is critical to emphasize that all charges against Ayomide, raised by the parents and the school of the affected ladies, have been dismissed due to the absence of malicious intent.

We urge reporters to diligently reach out to FUNAAB to obtain our viewpoint on any story before publication. Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.

Olasunkanmi Olajide
Assistant Director, Media Directorate of Public Relations
Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB)