UNILAG Faculty President drowns during beach outing in Lagos

The Education Faculty President of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Balogun Damilola, drowned during a beach outing in Lagos, throwing the community into mourning.

The incident was said to have occurred on Saturday, September 20, 2025, when Damilola, popularly known as Ayanfe Eledumare, was swept away by strong waves while attempting a backflip near the shoreline.

Witnesses said he was recording a video at the time, adding that despite frantic rescue efforts, he could not be saved.

His body was later recovered on Sunday 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.

As of Monday afternoon, the university management and local security agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.