A tragic incident has occurred at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra State, involving the death of a law student, Chioma Isabella Ajana. The student, who was reportedly living with diabetes, died after she was allegedly denied access to her room and her life-saving medication when she lost her key.
According to reports from multiple sources, the incident happened within one of the institution’s hostels. Chioma had misplaced her room key and sought assistance from the hostel management. However, it is alleged that the hostel mistress refused to provide a spare key or grant her access to the room unless she paid a fee of N120,000 for the replacement of the lock.
Chioma was said to have explained that her insulin and other essential diabetes medications were inside the room and that she needed immediate access. Despite her pleas and the apparent urgency of the situation, the hostel authority reportedly remained unyielding, insisting on the payment before any assistance could be rendered.
Witnesses and students who were close to the scene allege that Chioma’s health deteriorated rapidly after she was unable to access her medication. She eventually lost consciousness and was rushed to a nearby medical facility. Despite efforts to revive her, she was pronounced dead.
Her death has sparked outrage within the university community and across social media platforms, with students, alumni, and members of the public expressing anger over the reported negligence that led to the incident.
Students from the Faculty of Law and other departments have taken to social media to mourn the loss of the promising young student, describing her as intelligent, hardworking, and well-liked among her peers. Many are calling for a full investigation into the conduct of the hostel management and the policies surrounding emergency situations like the one that allegedly led to Chioma’s death.
The university administration has yet to release an official statement detailing the events that led to the student’s death or confirming the allegations against the hostel mistress. However, calls are mounting for the school authorities to respond promptly and transparently.
Student organizations and advocacy groups are also demanding that the university put in place emergency protocols for handling medical and accommodation-related issues, especially for students living with chronic health conditions. Critics argue that the alleged demand for N120,000 in such a life-threatening situation shows a lack of compassion and professionalism in managing student welfare.
Legal analysts have also weighed in, stating that if the allegations are proven true, the actions of the hostel staff could constitute criminal negligence or manslaughter, depending on the findings of an investigation.
The death of Chioma Ajana has also reignited wider discussions about the treatment of students in Nigerian universities, particularly regarding access to healthcare, hostel policies, and administrative responsiveness to emergencies. Many students have begun sharing similar experiences involving delays or strict policies that they say put their well-being at risk.
As of now, it remains unclear whether the Anambra State Police or any other law enforcement agency has launched an investigation into the matter. However, pressure is mounting on the university management to take swift action, including suspending the hostel mistress pending a thorough inquiry.
Chioma’s family has yet to release a public statement, but those familiar with the situation describe them as devastated by the loss of their daughter under such avoidable circumstances.
The university community continues to mourn, with several vigils and tributes planned in her memory. The circumstances surrounding her death remain a subject of ongoing public concern and demands for accountability.
