Nigerian student's death - University cancels classes after gathering tip-off

Lim Kok Wing University suspended classes at its Cyberjaya campus after being tipped off over a gathering concerning the death of Nigerian doctorate student Orhions Ewansiha Thomas.

However, the gathering which is believed to be organised by a group of Nigerian students did not take off. Thomas had died while in the custody of the immigration department.

Speaking to reporters, vice-chancellor Professor K Ramanathan (photo, above) said the management decided to suspend classes for today as a precautionary measure.

"Well you can see there is no gathering, the situation is well under control. There is no problem here," he added

It is understood that a large number of some 8,000 students enrolled at the campus are currently on a semester break until next month.

The students on vacation comprise mostly undergraduates while classes are ongoing at the post-graduate level.

According to a notice from the management, classes would resume as normal on Monday.

Asked if classes were cancelled in anticipation of the gathering, Ramanathan said: "We were told by our students (about the gathering) and we took all the necessary precautions."

"Like any public place, we have to take precautions towards any untoward incidents," he said.

Ramanathan (photo) said the university's administration was informed of Thomas' death by the Nigerian embassy in Kuala Lumpur last night.

"Our sympathies are for the family. He has two children," he added.

In a media statement, the university's management said it was contacted by a Nigerian embassy representative yesterday who requested for Thomas' student records to verify his death.

"We immediately responded by making all files available to the embassy.

"To our knowledge, Thomas was detained on July 5 at a public place in Kuala Lumpur during a raid (by the immigration department). His student visa was valid," it added.

Earlier today, immigration department director-general Khairul Dzaimee Daud confirmedthe incident which was first highlighted on social media by other Nigerian students here. - Mkini