Contrary to social media reports that he drowned while attempting a backflip, investigations revealed that Damilola Balogun, a 400-level student of the University of Lagos, died after being swept away by strong ocean currents at a beach in Ibeju-Lekki.
Balogun, a student in the Department of Education, was due to commence his teaching practice on Monday. He was also the president-elect of the Nigerian Universities Education Students Association (NUEASA), UNILAG chapter.
Sources said Balogun was at the Idado community beach with colleagues for a handover gathering with outgoing executive members of the association. Only a few members, including the General Secretary and the outgoing vice president, were still around when the incident happened on Thursday afternoon.
According to an eyewitness, Balogun ignored warnings to stay away from the turbulent water. After playing football, he reportedly asked the General Secretary to take photos and videos of him near the waves. Despite cautions about the strength of the current, he ventured further into the water.
Moments later, shouts were heard as Balogun struggled in the water. Local divers attempted to save him but were overpowered by the strong currents. His body was later recovered two days after the incident in the Museyo community, close to where he drowned, and was buried the same evening.
The Lagos chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) described Balogun as a committed leader and advocate for student rights. In a statement, NANS called him “a beacon of hope” and praised his resilience, courage, and dedication to service.
UNILAG officials have yet to issue a formal statement.
This tragedy adds to past drowning incidents in Lagos. In 2022, four teenagers lost their lives at Elegushi Beach, Lekki, while celebrating the completion of their secondary school examinations.
