In response to reports of a suspected outbreak of illness at Covenant University in Ota, Ogun State, both the university management and the state government have addressed the situation. The news, which circulated on social media, suggested a potential case of food poisoning, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and fever among students. While the university management initially declined to comment on the matter, additional sources, including parents and students, later confirmed the increased hospitalizations and overwhelmed health facilities on campus.
The Ogun State Government, however, labeled the information as “misinformation” without providing details on the actual circumstances. The Commissioner for Health, Tomi Coker, acknowledged the case’s investigation but maintained that it was misinformation. Despite not denying the unusual health situation, Coker did not disclose the findings of the investigation.
Similarly, Covenant University released a statement titled “Disclaimer,” asserting that the health situation on campus was not out of the ordinary. The university, in its evasive response, dismissed claims of an “unbearable situation” and numerous student admissions for dehydration due to a diarrheal disease outbreak. The statement emphasized the institution’s commitment to the health and well-being of students, faculty, and staff.
While the university maintained that students were well and preparing for examinations, some students and parents insisted that the health situation was indeed unusual. Reports from students suggested increased hospitalizations with symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting, with one student speculating that water consumed by students, rather than food, could be the cause. Some students reportedly drink water from the bathroom, potentially contributing to health issues.
Despite the university’s reassurances, concerned parents criticized the institution for its evasiveness and called for accountability in addressing the situation. The conflicting accounts between official statements and firsthand reports have added complexity to understanding the nature and extent of the health issues at Covenant University.
Source Covenant University: Ogun govt, management speak, as more sources confirm suspected poisoning on campus published in Premuim Times