By Adegbaju Temitope 

A lecturer in the Department of Public Administration at Kogi State Polytechnic, Mr Anselm Victory Ojodomo, has died after collapsing in the classroom while delivering a lecture.

The tragic incident, which occurred in the presence of students, was confirmed by the Rector of the institution, Prof. Salihu Avidime, in a statement issued on Friday and signed by the Acting Coordinator of the Directorate of Public Relations, Mr John Onimisi.

Ojodomo’s sudden death comes barely a month after the demise of another lecturer in the institution, Dr Barnabas Akuba, raising concerns among staff and students over the spate of losses within the academic community.

According to eyewitness accounts from students, the late lecturer collapsed while addressing them during a class session.

He was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead.

Reacting to the development, Avidime described the incident as a “deep personal shock”, noting that he had interacted with the deceased just hours before his death.

“I met him earlier in the day; we exchanged pleasantries and shook hands. The news of his passing came as a rude shock,” the rector said.

He paid glowing tribute to Ojodomo, describing him as a dedicated academic who demonstrated humility, professionalism and commitment to excellence in his duties.

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

He added that Ojodomo’s contributions as Deputy Dean, Student Services, as well as his role as a lecturer, were impactful and would be remembered by colleagues and students alike.

The late Ojodomo held a Master’s degree from Prince Abubakar Audu University, where he had recently defended his PhD proposal prior to his death.

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

His death has left the polytechnic community in mourning, with many expressing concern over the recent loss of academic staff within a short period.

The institution extended condolences to his family and the people of Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State, praying for the repose of his soul.