The Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic community in Ikot Osurua has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of Emem Okon Jimmy, a final year student from the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, who reportedly died in her sleep.

According to sources, the deceased was discovered on Friday night, July 18, 2025, after neighbors became concerned when she wasn't seen throughout the day. Emem had reportedly been in good health the previous day and had even shared dinner with fellow tenants at her lodge before retiring to bed on Thursday, July 17.

An eyewitness who requested anonymity revealed the disturbing circumstances surrounding the discovery: "It was around 10:00 pm on Friday when the lodge caretaker raised an alarm that Emem hadn't been seen all day. When neighbors tried to access her room, they found it locked from inside."

"The tenants had to open the roof and break through the ceiling to gain entry. They found her covered with her bedspread, still clutching her phone tightly—suggesting she may have attempted to call for help. Blood had oozed from her nose and stained the mattress as she lay face down," the source added.

The caretaker reportedly contacted Emem's elder brother, who traveled from Uyo to Ikot Ekpene to transport her remains to the mortuary.

During a candlelight procession held ahead of her burial scheduled for Saturday, July 25, 2025, Dr. Inemesit Umoren, Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, offered words of consolation to the grieving students.

"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," Dr. Umoren lamented. "May the soul of the departed rest in peace. We pray it won't happen again. I sympathize with you people. Take heart!"

Dr. Umoren also advised students to prioritize their health by undergoing regular medical checkups while pursuing their academic endeavors.

Meanwhile, Nsoefen Mark Akpan, President of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, has urged all students to attend Emem's burial ceremony on Saturday to accord her a befitting farewell.

This tragic incident marks the second student death in the department this year, further intensifying the sense of loss within the polytechnic community.

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