The Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, is in mourning following the tragic death of Emem Okon Jimmy, a final-year student in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies. Her body was discovered on Friday, July 18, 2025, in her room at the students' lodge.
Circumstances Surrounding the Death
According to reports, Emem was reportedly hale and hearty on Thursday, July 17, 2025, sharing dinner with other tenants before retiring to bed. Her body was discovered around 10 p.m. on Friday when concerned neighbors broke into her room after she failed to come out all day. The door was locked from the inside, and Emem's body was found wrapped in a bedspread, clutching her cell phone tightly, with blood oozing from her nose.
Tributes and Condolences
The Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Dr. Inemesit Umoren, addressed the students during a candlelight procession ahead of Emem's burial, expressing condolences and urging students to prioritize their health. "It is sad that we lost one of you again. This is the second time we lost a student in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies this year," Umoren said.
Burial and Memorial
Emem's burial took place on Saturday, July 25, 2025, with students and faculty members in attendance to pay their last respects. The President of the Journalism and Media Studies Students Association, Hon. Nsoefen Mark Akpan, encouraged students to attend the burial to give Emem a befitting farewell ¹.
