ILE-IFE, Nigeria (BN24) — The management of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, Nigeriahas issued an urgent appeal for information regarding the whereabouts of a missing female student, Dorcas Oseghale, who has not been seen since the evening of Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
According to a statement released on Sunday by the university’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Olanrewaju, Oseghale, a student in the Department of Chemistry with matriculation number CHM/2021/165, was last seen at approximately 8:00 p.m. after leaving her residence at Adesanmi House, Ibadan Road, to buy food near the students’ village along Ede Road—just outside the university campus.
“When Dorcas failed to return on time, her roommate attempted to reach her through her mobile phones, only to discover that both lines were switched off and unreachable,” the statement said.
Initial concerns began circulating on student social media platforms by 3:00 p.m. on August 7, prompting the university’s security unit to begin monitoring online discussions surrounding her disappearance. By 6:10 p.m. that same day, a formal report was filed at the university’s security post by a group of Chemistry students, along with her roommate, Akinkuade Omobolanle Beatrice, a student in the Department of Agricultural Extension.
Given the gravity of the situation and the limitations in resources, the university security team assigned three personnel to work with the students while escalating the matter to the Nigerian Police Force, which is now leading the investigation. The authorities are expected to deploy broader technical and investigative resources to uncover the circumstances behind Oseghale’s disappearance.
The Vice Chancellor of the university, Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire, has praised the student community for their swift response and vigilance. He also issued a heartfelt plea to the police and other security agencies to intensify efforts in locating the missing student.
“We are deeply concerned about the safety and well-being of Miss Dorcas Oseghale,” Professor Bamire stated. “We urge anyone with credible information that could aid in finding her to come forward immediately by contacting the nearest police station or the university’s security unit.”
The case has heightened anxiety within the OAU community and renewed calls for enhanced student safety, particularly in off-campus areas often frequented by students.
