— Police launches probe, invites Managers

By Dayo Johnson Akure

Two newly matriculated students of Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba-Akoko AAUA, in Ondo state, have reportedly drowned during a swimming pool party organized by the Unibercity Lounge and Hotel, Akungba-Akoko, for the newly admitted university students.

The tragic incident, occured during a swimming pool party organized by the hotel for new students of the Ondo state owned institution.

The state police image maker, DSP Jimoh Abayomi said that the hotel manager, Ayomide Badejo alongside the pool manager have been invited for questioning as part of preliminary investigation.

Abayomi said in a statement in Akure, that ” a report was received at the Akungba Divisional Police Headquarters from one Shittu, male, the pool manager of Unibercity Lounge and Hotel, Akungba-Akoko, regarding an unfortunate incident that occurred during a swimming pool party organized by the hotel for newly matriculated students.

“According to the report, at about 2000hrs on the same date, one Adegbola Blessing, male, aged 19 years, was discovered unconscious inside the hotel’s swimming pool.

“He was immediately rescued by the pool manager and administered first aid. The victim reportedly regained consciousness, was able to stand, and was subsequently taken home by his friends.

“Shortly thereafter, another individual, Oludere Opeyemi, male, aged 22 years, was also discovered unconscious in the swimming pool.

” He was promptly rescued and rushed to the State Hospital, Ikare-Akoko, where he was later confirmed dead by medical personnel.

“Following the report, operatives of the Akungba Divisional Police Station were promptly deployed to the scene on the night of the incident to commence investigation.

“Meanwhile, the hotel manager, Ayomide Badejo, female, alongside the pool manager, were invited for questioning as part of preliminary investigation.

“Further developments occurred in the early hours of 30th January, 2026, at about 0700hrs, when the first victim, Adegbola Blessing, was reported to have also passed on.

“Consequently, the case was transferred to the Command’s Monitoring Unit for discreet, thorough, and comprehensive investigation.

“The remains of the deceased persons have been deposited at the State Hospital, Ikare-Akoko morgue for preservation and autopsy, as part of the ongoing investigation process.

Abayomi has therefore advised “all hotel owners and operators across the State to prioritize the safety and wellbeing of their guests by putting in place adequate and functional safety measures within their facilities, with particular emphasis on swimming pool areas.

The police spokesperson stressed the importance of installing appropriate safety equipment, ensuring proper supervision, and restricting unauthorized access where necessary, in strict compliance with existing state regulations, in order to prevent avoidable incidents and avert a recurrence of such unfortunate occurrences.

Meanwhile, the state police commissioner Adebowale Lawal
has assured members of the public that the incident was being thoroughly investigated to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the deaths, establish any form of culpability, and ensure that justice is served.

Lawal urged members of the public to remain calm and refrain from speculation, as further updates will be communicated as investigation progresses.