Feranmi Akin-Akinye, a 22-year-old graduate of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, tragically lost his life after falling from the iconic 26-storey Cocoa House in Ibadan, Oyo State. The incident occurred on Monday, June 2, 2025, during a work-related task at the company where he was undergoing cybersecurity training.
According to reports, Feranmi and a few colleagues had gone to the top floor to install a large banner as instructed. While attempting to fix the banner, he reportedly stepped on a fragile frame that gave way, causing him to fall from the 24th floor. Witnesses said the fall resulted in severe injuries, and despite efforts to rush him to the University College Hospital (UCH), he died on the spot.
Sources close to the family revealed that Feranmi’s remains were claimed from the hospital morgue and buried the following day by his church, Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), Apata branch. His mother, a well-known resident of Ibadan, has since relocated to Lagos with his siblings to escape the overwhelming number of sympathizers at their home.
A family acquaintance described Feranmi as humble and easygoing, noting that despite being from a well-off family and owning a car, he was never proud or flashy. The source blamed the company for assigning such a dangerous task—typically meant for trained professionals—to a trainee.
“They asked him to mount a giant banner without proper safety equipment. Because he was humble and obedient, he agreed,” the source said, adding that the company allegedly tried to downplay the incident.
It was also claimed that the company failed to immediately inform the victim’s mother and that media personnel, including those from 32 FM, were prevented from covering the incident. The victim’s body was reportedly quickly covered and removed from the scene.
There are now indications that members of Feranmi’s extended family, particularly his father’s relatives, are considering legal action against the company for negligence.
The management of Cocoa House, through a statement by Victor Ayetoro, Head of Branding and Communication for Odu’a Investment Company Limited, confirmed the incident. While not providing details about the victim, the company expressed its concern and assured full cooperation with ongoing investigations.
More updates are expected as the investigation progresses.
