By Joy Yesufu
The University of Lagos (UNILAG) community has been thrown into mourning following the death of Balogun Damilola, President of the Faculty of Education, who drowned during a beach outing in Lagos.
The incident occurred on Saturday, September 20, 2025, when Damilola, popularly known as Ayanfe Eledumare, was reportedly swept away by strong waves while attempting a backflip near the shoreline.
Witnesses said he was recording a video at the time.
Despite frantic rescue efforts, he could not be saved. His body was later recovered on Sunday morning at Museyo Beach, Ibeju-Lekki, about two kilometres from where he disappeared.
Damilola, who had only recently assumed office as Faculty President after serving as Vice President the previous year, was widely regarded as a promising leader.
His death has sparked widespread grief among students, friends, and colleagues.
Tributes have poured in on social media, with many describing him as vibrant, energetic, and dedicated.
One of his close associates, who identified himself as Doyindoski on X, wrote: “He was my roommate… and bro just became the President of his faculty. RIP Balogun Damilola.”
As of Monday afternoon, the university management and local security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
