He further explained that the student took ill before the Easter holidays and was unable to sit for some of his examinations.
The management of Madonna University, Nigeria, has debunked viral social media reports alleging that a 100-level Psychology student, Mr. William Fubara, was beaten to death by fellow students and hostel representatives at its Okija campus in Anambra State.
The university clarified that the student died at his family home in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, during the Easter break following a brief illness, contrary to claims that he succumbed to internal bleeding from a physical assault.
The controversy erupted following social media posts by one Martin Beck Nworah and various online platforms, alleging that Fubara was targeted and “ganged up on” by hall representatives because he was “effeminate” and suspected of being gay.
Speaking in an interview with SaharaReporters, the Director of Communications and Public Affairs of Madonna University, Chima Achu, stated that while there was a disciplinary issue involving the student in February 2026, it never involved physical violence.
“The information I got from the Okija campus is that there was no issue of beating. What happened was a reported case where the boy in question was making overtures to another student for a gay relationship. The matter was reported to the school, and both were summoned to a panel in February,” Achu said.
He further explained that the student took ill before the Easter holidays and was unable to sit for some of his examinations.
“The parents reached out to the school that he wasn’t feeling too strong. After the Easter break, they contacted the Dean of Student Affairs to inform him that the boy had passed away.”
Achu stressed that if the student had truly been beaten to death, the parents would have involved the police and demanded an autopsy instead of proceeding with burial arrangements.
He confirmed that the university is sending a three-man delegation to attend Fubara’s burial in Port Harcourt on Friday.
In an official statement titled “Madonna University Nigeria Condemns False and Malicious Claims,” signed by Achu, the institution described the allegations as a deliberate attempt to provoke public outrage and damage its reputation.
The statement read in part: “At no time was Mr. William Fubara, or any other student, subjected to physical assault or abuse on campus. His unfortunate passing occurred at his home during the Easter break, not within the University as has been falsely claimed.
“One report alleged that “Mr. Fubara was killed last weekend.” This claim is clearly false, as students were still away on Easter break at the time.
“Those responsible for originating and spreading these malicious narratives have been identified. They have since admitted to their actions and, together with their parents, have appealed for forgiveness.”
The statement added, “Madonna University Nigeria considers these actions deeply regrettable. The deliberate distortion of facts, particularly at a time of loss, demonstrates a troubling disregard for truth, accountability, and the emotional wellbeing of all affected.
“While the University will not be distracted by attempts to undermine its integrity, it remains firmly committed to transparency, due process, and the continued safety and welfare of every student in its care,” the statement partly read.
The university’s position, however, stands in sharp contrast to narratives circulating online. A Facebook post by Portharcourt Specials alleged that Fubara was a “kind soul” who was victimized for his mannerisms.
“A handful of hall or hostel reps accused him of being gay. Williams was effeminate but stayed in his lane. They ganged up to beat him. He bled internally and without timely medical attention, he passed on,” the post claimed.
Another report by Coal City Connect alleged that the fatal attack was carried out by “the university’s porter and hall representatives,” sparking a wave of condemnation from online users.
Madonna University has urged the public to exercise restraint and avoid spreading unverified information, maintaining that its commitment to student welfare and academic excellence remains “steadfast.”
