Madonna University: Student Death Not From Campus Assault

Madonna University has denied reports circulating online that 100-level Psychology student William Fubara was beaten to death at its Okija campus.

In an interview shared by SaharaReporters, the university said Fubara died at his family home in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, during the Easter break after a short illness.

Director of Communications and Public Affairs, Chima Achu, told SaharaReporters that “there was no beating” involving the student.

Achu said the school received a complaint in February 2026 that Fubara had made advances toward another male student for a gay relationship. Both students appeared before a disciplinary panel.

He added that Fubara fell sick before the Easter holidays and missed some exams. “His parents told the school he was not feeling well. After the Easter break, they informed the Dean of Student Affairs that he had died,” Achu told SaharaReporters.

Achu noted that if the student had been beaten to death, his parents would have contacted the police and requested an autopsy rather than proceed with burial plans.

The university said it will send a three-man delegation to Fubara’s burial in Port Harcourt on Friday.

In its statement titled “Madonna University Nigeria Condemns False and Malicious Claims,” the school said: “At no time was Mr. William Fubara, or any other student, physically attacked or abused on campus. He sadly died at home during the Easter break, not at the University as falsely reported.”

The statement also faulted claims that “Mr. Fubara was killed last weekend,” stating that students were still on Easter break at the time.

According to the university, those who started and shared the false reports have been identified. They have admitted to their actions and, with their parents, have asked for forgiveness.

“Madonna University Nigeria sees these actions as very regrettable,” the statement read. “Twisting the facts, especially during a time of loss, shows a lack of respect for truth, responsibility, and the feelings of those affected.”

The school appealed to the public to stop spreading unverified information and said it remains committed to transparency, due process, and student safety.