Babcock University has refuted viral claims suggesting negligence in the disappearance of one of its students, Oladipupo Siwajuola, stating that he was never missing but left campus without authorisation.
On Monday, the university issued a statement signed by its director of communication and public relations, Joshua Suleiman, in response to allegations made by Siwajuola’s mother.
Suleiman described her version of events as “sensational and false,” accusing her of launching a “misleading” social media campaign that unfairly painted the university and its students in a negative light.
According to Suleiman, Siwajuola, a JUPEB (Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board) student, exited the school premises without adhering to proper procedures.
“The student in question left the University campus unlawfully, without following established protocols or obtaining proper clearance,” the statement read.
“Contrary to public assertions, the student’s exit was neither approved nor known to the University at the time.”
He added that while the student’s mother took her concerns online, the institution was already working behind the scenes with the Nigeria Police, security agencies and student organisations to locate him.
“These public allegations were not only misleading but deeply regrettable.”
“We strongly denounce the irresponsible and reckless use of social media to whip up sentiment, attract public sympathy, cast aspersions on the University’s reputation, and to incite public unrest.”
“Rather than joining the needless engagement on social media, the University was busy galvanizing efforts to ensure the safety and return of the student,” the statement read.
Although unconfirmed, reports suggest that Siwajuola was later found in Akute, Ogun State, an area near Lagos where he once attended secondary school.
The statement revealed that the student had exhibited troubling behaviour prior to his disappearance. His roommates allegedly raised concerns about his involvement in gambling, debt accumulation, and the use of prohibited items on campus.
Suleiman said the student’s mother was aware of these issues but instructed his roommates not to report him, thereby hindering the school’s internal safety protocols.
The university further disclosed that Siwajuola lied to his mother about the whereabouts of his phone, sold it and shared his banking credentials with a friend in order to remain in communication while concealing his activities. At one point, he reportedly threatened a roommate who had informed his mother about his conduct.
Despite these warning signs, Suleiman said the student’s mother did not officially inform the university of his disappearance until May 2.
By then, the school had already flagged his absence during routine checks and launched an investigation.
Siwajuola is now expected to face the university’s disciplinary committee. Suleiman added that anyone else found culpable during the ongoing probe would also face due process.
Reaffirming Babcock’s commitment to student safety, Suleiman noted that while the university has a duty of care, it is not absolute.
He stressed that students are expected to act responsibly and follow campus regulations. With over 13,000 resident students, he said the institution had never recorded a case of this nature, which he attributed to its strong systems.
Suleiman criticised the mother’s campaign as “premature, irresponsible and damaging,” warning the public against drawing conclusions from unverified social media narratives. He also said the university may consider legal action to protect its reputation.
The statement ended with a call for greater cooperation from parents, encouraging them to work through institutional channels rather than spread misinformation. Suleiman reaffirmed Babcock’s commitment to academic excellence and moral guidance.
