By Folashade Ogundepo, Ondo
The Registrar of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo State, Mr. Ezekiel Imole Adeniran, has been assassinated by yet-to-be-identified assailants, plunging the university community into mourning.
Adeniran, who became the third substantive Registrar of the institution on January 6, 2025, was reportedly found dead in his residence in Ondo town in the early hours of Thursday, July 17.
A source within the university, who confirmed the incident, disclosed that the late Registrar was discovered lifeless in his apartment. “He was discovered lifeless in his home on Thursday morning. We hope the police will uncover what really happened,” the source said.
The Head of Media and Protocol at UNIMED, Mr. Isaac Oluyi, in an official statement, described the death as shocking and deeply painful.
“The devastating news has left the entire university community in mourning. He was present at work on Monday, July 14. The circumstances of his death remain unclear at this point,” the statement read.
Oluyi paid glowing tribute to the late registrar’s character and service, stating: “He served with dedication and integrity until his untimely death. Our thoughts are with his family during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace.”
Similarly, the university’s Head of Human Resources, Mr. M.A. Akinkuade, expressed sadness over the development and described Adeniran as a loyal and diligent official whose impact on the university’s growth and administrative structure will be remembered.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command has confirmed that the Registrar was murdered.
The State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Olayinka Ayanlade, told journalists that the case was reported at the Fanibi Police Division, adding that investigation has since commenced.
According to him, preliminary findings revealed that two men reportedly emerged from a nearby bush and forced an unknown substance into another individual’s mouth at the scene, suggesting a deliberate attack.
“We are investigating the full circumstances surrounding the assault. While the precise location of the incident is still being verified, the police have pledged to follow all leads and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Ayanlade said.
He called on members of the public with relevant information to assist the police in their investigation, assuring that justice would be served.
As of press time, UNIMED remains in a state of mourning, with academic and administrative activities subdued in honour of the late Registrar.