NANS Demands Probe As Ex-Akwa Ibom Varsity SUG President Dies At NYSC Camp

The immediate past Students’ Union Government (SUG) President of Akwa Ibom State University, Comrade Etimbuk Daniel, has reportedly died at the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Enugu State following allegations of counterfeit medication and delayed access to medical attention.

Daniel, who was serving as a corps member, reportedly complained of a headache and was given medication at the camp, but his condition allegedly worsened after taking the drugs.

The President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, disclosed the incident in a statement, alleging that Daniel died before he could be taken to a hospital for proper medical care.

According to Afeez, the deceased had requested hospital treatment after his condition deteriorated, but approval for his transfer was allegedly delayed.

“According to the information available to us, Comrade Daniel complained of a headache and was administered some medication. Unfortunately, his condition reportedly worsened after taking the drugs,” the NANS president said.

Afeez further alleged that a doctor subsequently identified the medication administered to Daniel as fake, calling for a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding his death.

“We were further informed that the doctor later identified the drugs administered to him as fake. These are deeply troubling allegations that require a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding his tragic death,” he added.

The incident has raised concerns over the quality of medical care available to corps members at orientation camps and the procedures for securing emergency medical treatment when necessary.

Describing Daniel’s death as a painful loss to the student community, Afeez condemned the alleged administration of counterfeit medication and called for stronger measures to tackle the circulation of fake and substandard drugs in Nigeria.

“The menace of fake drugs continues to pose a grave threat to lives in our society, and this tragic incident underscores the urgent need for accountability, proper medical care, and stronger measures to protect the lives of our young people,” he said.

NANS extended its condolences to Daniel’s family, the Akwa Ibom State University community, the NYSC community and his fellow corps members, adding that it would announce further actions and its official position as more information emerged. The allegations surrounding the death have yet to be independently established.