The body of 20-year-old Suleiman Rahma Onono, a student of the Federal College of Education, Okene, was discovered days after she was reported missing, prompting deep shock, grief, and urgent calls for answers from the college community and local authorities.
Onono was last seen on a Saturday more than a week before her body was recovered. Concern grew when she failed to return home, leading family members, classmates, and campus security to launch efforts to locate her and report her disappearance to law enforcement.
In an official statement after the discovery, a representative of the college expressed profound sadness over the loss and emphasised the impact on students and staff. “This is a very difficult time for our institution,” the spokesperson said. “Rahma was a valued student, and her loss has deeply affected all of us. We are committed to strengthening safety and security on campus while fully cooperating with the authorities as the investigation continues.”
Officials from the Kogi State police command confirmed that a thorough investigation has been launched to determine the circumstances surrounding Onono’s disappearance and death. A senior police officer, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing nature of the inquiry, appealed for calm and for anyone with information to come forward. “We are exploring all leads and working diligently to understand what happened,” the officer said. “We ask the public to be patient and support our efforts by sharing any information that could assist the investigation.”
Students, friends, and members of the college community described Onono as dedicated and respectful. One classmate, who declined to be named, said, “She was a hardworking person. We are all devastated by this loss. Her absence is felt deeply in every part of campus life.”
Community leaders also weighed in, linking the case to broader concerns about safety for young people. A local youth advocate noted that incidents involving violence against students raise urgent questions about security measures both on and off educational campuses. “Every young person deserves to live and learn without fear,” the advocate said. “We call on authorities to act decisively and transparently so that families and communities can have confidence in their safety.”
College management has reiterated its commitment to student welfare and said it will review and enhance existing safety protocols in consultation with security agencies.
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials have pledged to provide verified updates to the public. Meanwhile, family members, classmates, and community members continue to mourn Onono’s death and call for justice and preventive action to protect students in the region.
This remains a developing story, and verified information will be reported as it becomes available.
