The 22-year-old man who fell from one of the floors of the 26-storey Cocoa House in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Tuesday has been identified as Feranmi Akin-Akinye, a graduate of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD).
According to reports, Feranmi fell while carrying out a task for the company he was interning with, which led to his death after unsuccessful hospital treatment.
Feranmi was undergoing cybersecurity training with a firm located on the 8th floor of Cocoa House when the incident occurred. Sources revealed that he was instructed to install a massive wall banner at the top of the 26-floor structure, a job that typically requires trained professionals with proper safety gear.
The deceased, Feranmi Akin-Akinye, a 22-year old graduate of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD)
A neighbour of the deceased, who wished to remain anonymous, described Feranmi as a respectful and humble young man from a supportive family. “He lived with his mother in the Meridian area of Apata, while his father is based in the United States. He had a car gifted by his parents but was never boastful. He was always so down to earth,” the source said.
The neighbour also expressed concerns about the circumstances surrounding Feranmi’s death, stating that his willingness to follow instructions might have cost him his life. “He shouldn’t have been the one mounting that banner. The company had no business asking a trainee to handle such a risky task,” the neighbour said, attributing the incident to the firm’s alleged negligence, which they described as a “preventable death.”
Further claims suggested that after the incident, the company tried to suppress the full details.
“They said he was rushed to the hospital even though it was clear he died instantly. They didn’t inform his mother — she was contacted by a random stranger. Even when 32 FM, which operates within the building, tried to take photos, they were stopped. His body was immediately covered. From what I heard, it was badly mangled,” the neighbour added.
Feranmi was laid to rest on Tuesday by his church, Winners Chapel, amid tears and heartbreak. It has also been reported that his father’s relatives are now considering legal action against the company over allegations of negligence and failure to ensure proper safety protocols.
The management of the company involved had, as of press time, are yet to release an official statement regarding the incident.
