A heartbreaking incident unfolded at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Port Harcourt, as a premature baby was discovered dead in front of a female hostel. The male child, wrapped in cloth, was found abandoned by an unknown individual on Saturday morning, sending shockwaves through the university community.
According to eyewitness accounts from students, the infant, estimated to be between six and seven months old, was left outside the Rumulumeni campus of the university, situated in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state. Describing the scene, one student, speaking anonymously, recounted the distressing sight of the newborn lying in a pool of blood with the placenta nearby.
Speculation arose among students, with some suggesting that the mother of the child may be a student who sought to conceal her pregnancy and dispose of the baby. Another source noted the presence of fresh blood on the infant, indicating recent birth.
Dr. Ngozi Okiridu, spokesperson for the university, confirmed the tragic discovery, emphasizing that the incident had been reported to the police. However, she stated that it was uncertain whether the child belonged to a student.
Meanwhile, Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the state police command, acknowledged awareness of the incident through social media but indicated a need for confirmation from the Divisional Police Officer. As of the time of this report, further details regarding the investigation were pending.