Ondo govt seeks coroner’s inquest into UNIMED Registrar’s death

The Ondo State Government has ordered a coroner’s inquest to unravel the circumstances surrounding the sudden death of the Registrar of the University of Medical Sciences (UNIMED), Ondo, Mr Ezekiel Imole Adeniran.

This was contained in a statement issued and signed by the Director of Information and Media Relations, Olaoluwa Meshack, on behalf of the Ministry of Justice, who said the coroner’s inquest became necessary to determine whether his death was natural, accidental or the result of criminal conduct.

Adeniran, 54, was discovered lying unconscious in the compound of his private residence in Akure on the morning of 17 July 2025. Neighbours and family members rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead on arrival by a medical officer.

The death of the late registrar sparked shock and speculation within the university community and beyond, as colleagues described him as “dedicated, disciplined and in high spirits” just days earlier.

In a letter addressed to the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Segun Odusola, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr Olukayode Ajulo (SAN), said the request for an inquest became necessary due to widespread reports that Adeniran’s death occurred under questionable circumstances.

Ajulo explained that the inquest, to be conducted in accordance with the Ondo State Coroners Law, would help ascertain the cause and manner of death and determine whether any individual could bear criminal responsibility.

He urged the Chief Judge to assign a magistrate within the appropriate jurisdiction to serve as coroner and conduct the investigation.

Ajulo’s letter read: “The deceased’s passing has been widely reported as occurring under questionable circumstances. The inquest will determine the actual cause and manner of his death, and establish whether any individual may bear criminal responsibility.”

The Attorney General urged the Chief Judge to assign a magistrate with jurisdiction to act as coroner in accordance with the Ondo State Coroners Law.

The process, once commenced, will involve a legal examination of evidence, witness testimony and medical reports to piece together the events leading to Adeniran’s death.

Adeniran served as Registrar of UNIMED since 2019 and was widely respected for his administrative acumen and commitment to the institution’s growth.

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