Shock, mourning in Kogi Poly as lecturer slumps, dies while teaching

By Stephen Adeleye/Kogi

The staff and students of Kogi State Polytechnic have been thrown into mourning following the death of Anslem Ojodomo, a lecturer in the institution’s Department of Public Administration while teaching.

The death of Ojodomo was announced in a statement by Rector of the Polytechnic, Prof. Salihu Avidime on Friday.

In the statement signed by Mr John Onimisi, Ag. Co-ordinator, Directorate of Public Relations of Kogi Polytechnic, the Rector, extended heartfelt condolences to the community and family of the late Ojodomo, describing the news as a “deep personal shock”.

Avidime recalled a meeting with Ojodomo just hours before his death, where they exchanged pleasantries and shook hands.

The rector praised the late lecturer as a dedicated staff member, humble and committed to excellence, who distinguished himself as a student and lecturer.

“The Polytechnic community is mourning the loss of a promising academic and dependable colleague, who embodied scholarship, service, and character.

“Ojodomo’s contributions as Deputy Dean, Students Services, and lecturer are remembered as impactful and inspiring,” Avidime said.

The tragic incident is coming just a month after another lecturer, Dr Barnabas Akuba, passed away shortly after completing his PhD program.

Ojodomo’s death has sparked concern and fear among staff and students, with many questioning the circumstances surrounding the sudden deaths.

Meanwhile, some students who witnessed the incident said Ojodomo collapsed while addressing them.

The students said that he was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was confirmed dead.

They said that the polytechnic community had been left in a state of uncertainty with two lecturers lost in quick succession.

Anselm Victory Ojodomo was described as a dedicated lecturer with Master’s degrees from Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, where he recently defended his Ph.D proposal.

He joined Kogi State Polytechnic in 2021 and served in several committees.

The Polytechnic community commiserated with his family and the people of Igalamela/Odolu, praying for his soul to rest in eternal peace. (NAN)