A final-year student of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, identified simply as John, has died under tragic circumstances during a routine karate training session held on campus.
John, who was pursuing a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Journalism and Media Studies, was widely known among peers for his vibrant personality and deep involvement in extracurricular activities, particularly martial arts.
According to reports, the incident occurred during a Saturday morning training session. John had left his off-campus residence, as was his usual routine, to participate in the scheduled practice. However, shortly after stepping into the ring, he suddenly collapsed, causing alarm among fellow trainees.
Concerned for his wellbeing, his colleagues immediately rushed him to a nearby private hospital in Ikot Ekpene. Unfortunately, medical personnel at the facility declined to admit him, instead referring them to the General Hospital in the same town. This initial refusal heightened the anxiety of those who accompanied him, though they clung to hope that he would still receive timely care.
Upon arrival at the General Hospital, doctors conducted assessments but sadly confirmed that John was dead on arrival. The confirmation sent shockwaves through the group of students who had been by his side, many of whom were unable to come to terms with the tragic outcome.
Speaking to Daily Post, Nsoefen Mark Akpan, President of the Journalism and Media Studies Students Association (JAMSSA), described the atmosphere as heartbreaking and filled with disbelief. In a desperate bid to reverse the situation, the students took John’s body to a nearby church, hoping that divine intervention might revive him.
Prayers were fervently offered, but no signs of life returned. A spiritualist who later attempted to revive John reportedly told the students that he had already crossed over into the spiritual realm, a statement that deepened the emotional toll on his friends and colleagues.
Eventually, the group returned the body to the mortuary. Despite the finality of the situation, many students remained there, clinging to hope for a miracle.
The Head of Department, Inemesit Umoren, soon arrived at the hospital to console the grieving students. She offered words of comfort and support as they processed the heartbreaking news.
John’s parents were immediately notified of the incident. His untimely death has cast a shadow over the campus, especially within the Journalism and Media Studies Department, where he was a well-known and active figure.
