A student of the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), Michael Coker, has died after he suddenly collapsed while sitting for an examination at the institution’s Victoria Island study centre in Lagos last Tuesday.
According to PUNCH Newspaper, eyewitnesses and students at the centre alleged that Coker lay on the floor for several minutes, gasping for breath, while attempts by fellow students to assist him were allegedly discouraged by an invigilator.
A student identified as Bukola told PUNCH that the incident occurred around 11am, shortly after candidates entered the examination hall.
She said Coker was standing with another student behind him when he suddenly slumped and was lowered to the floor by his colleague.
Bukola alleged that a female senior lecturer, who was invigilating in a nearby hall, entered the venue and ordered students to return to their seats despite being informed that a candidate had collapsed.
“She chased everyone away and told us to continue writing the exam. She even said in Yoruba, ‘E fi sílè, ó máa dìde’ (Leave him; he will get up),” Bukola claimed.
She added that Coker remained on the floor, jerking and struggling to breathe, while students pleaded for help.
According to her, it took several minutes before a nurse was contacted, and even placing Coker on a chair was delayed.
“The nurse later came and administered first aid before he was taken downstairs through the elevator. We were asked to continue with the examination. It was only after we finished that we were told he had died,” she said.
A member of staff who spoke anonymously told PUNCH that medical emergencies during examinations were not uncommon, noting that some students have underlying health conditions or collapse suddenly due to seizures or substance use.
However, a class representative of the deceased, Prince Preskit, gave a different account, stating that there was no deliberate attempt to deny Coker help.
He said the invigilator was initially trying to give the student space and that Coker was rushed to hospital once it became clear that the situation was serious.
Preskit disclosed that Coker was taken to Bonny Camp Hospital, where he was reportedly referred to another medical facility due to the unavailability of oxygen.
When PUNCH visited Bonny Camp Hospital, the management denied rejecting the patient, explaining that he was referred to another hospital better equipped to handle his condition.
Efforts to obtain an official response from NOUN were unsuccessful, as the director of the Victoria Island study centre declined to comment on the incident.
An official who was not authorised to speak on behalf of the university told PUNCH that a response would likely be provided in January.