Tragedy struck the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, following the assassination of its Registrar, Mr. Ezekiel Imole Adeniran, barely five months after assuming office.

Mr. Adeniran, who became the institution’s third substantive Registrar on January 6, 2025, was found dead in his residence in Ondo town in the early hours of Thursday, July 17, 2025. His sudden death has sent shockwaves through the university community and across Ondo State.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, said preliminary investigations point to assassination.

 “The man died in the early hours of Thursday. The incident was reported at Fanibi Division,” Ayanlade said.

“From available information, two men reportedly emerged from the bush and forced a substance into another person’s mouth. We are doing everything possible to unravel the truth surrounding his death and track down those responsible.”

Ayanlade urged the public to come forward with any useful information to aid the investigation.

Reacting to the tragedy, UNIMED’s Head of Media and Protocol, Mr. Isaac Oluyi, described the news as “devastating,” confirming that the Registrar was last seen at his duty post on Monday, July 14.

 “The university community is in mourning. Mr. Adeniran served diligently from January 6, 2025, until his untimely death, our thoughts and prayers are with his immediate family and the entire university during this trying moment. May God repose his soul," Oluyi stated.

In a separate condolence message, the university’s Head of Human Resources, Mr. M.A. Akinkuade, praised the late Registrar’s dedication and professionalism.

 “Mr. Adeniran was a hardworking and committed staff member whose contributions to the growth of UNIMED will not be forgotten. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”

Although the motive behind the assassination remains unknown, the killing adds to a worrying pattern of insecurity in Ondo State in recent months. The targeted nature of the attack has raised concerns about threats facing public servants, particularly in educational institutions.

Authorities have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice as investigations continue.