As counsel to the family of late Joshua Ejigbo, we are deeply appalled by the recent insensitive and callous statements made by Mr. Ben Agande, the spokesperson for Veritas University, Abuja, regarding the tragic death of our client's son, Joshua. Mr. Agande's dismissive remarks about the family acting on a "phantom autopsy" and his insinuation that they are spreading falsehoods are not only untrue but also deeply hurtful to a family grieving the loss of their child.

It is evident that Veritas University, rather than expressing remorse for their negligence, has chosen to defame and attack the grieving family of Joshua. This behaviour further demonstrates their lack of empathy and accountability in this matter.

Let us be clear: Veritas University, while acting in loco parentis, had a legal and moral duty to ensure the safety and well-being of Joshua while he was under their care. They failed in this duty on multiple fronts:

1. The gymnasium where the incident occurred was unsupervised, leaving students vulnerable to potential hazards.

2. The delay in attending to Joshua's injuries and the lack of basic first aid in the gymnasium and emergency care facilities at the university's clinic undoubtedly exacerbated his condition.

3. The university allowed an underage student to use gym facilities without obtaining express written consent from his parents.

These failures amongst several identified constitute a clear breach of the duty of care owed to Joshua, and we intend to hold Veritas University fully accountable for their negligence.

Furthermore, Veritas University, as the owner and occupier of the premises where this tragic incident occurred, bears an undeniable responsibility under the legal principle of owner/occupier liability. The university had an inherent duty to ensure that its premises were safe for all students before inviting them onto campus. It is unconscionable that an institution that collects substantial fees from its students failed to provide the most basic protection to the young people entrusted to its care.

This negligence is not only a legal liability but also a moral failing of the highest order.

Moreover, the university's version of events surrounding Joshua's death is blatantly contradicted by the medical certificate of cause of death. While the school attempts to portray the incident as unexplainable, the certificate clearly indicates that Joshua died a violent death under their watch. This discrepancy raises serious concerns about the university's transparency and cooperation in helping the family uncover the truth. It is evident that Veritas University is more concerned with protecting its commercial interests and maintaining a facade of morality to attract unsuspecting families than with revealing the truth and taking responsibility for their negligence.

We urge Veritas University to retract their insensitive statements, issue a sincere apology to the family, and take immediate steps to address the systemic failures that led to this tragedy. We will not rest until justice is served for Joshua and his family.

For: A&G Solomon®

Ataguba S. Aboje, Esq, CIPP/E, NP FRN, MCIArb, FICAD, FBDFM, FCIGCD

Managing Partner

Barrister and Solicitor of the Supreme Court of Nigeria

Solicitor of the Senior Courts of England and Wales

Notary