Sheriff Ibrahim: UG Law Student Sadly Passes Away During Sporting Activities, His Friends Mourn

• Grief has engulfed students and lecturers of the University of Ghana Law School, following the passing of a student
• Sheriff Ibrahim's passing was announced on June 7, 2025, after he reportedly collapsed and died on the spot
• Speaking exclusively to YEN.com.gh, a Ghanaian nurse shared her views on Sheriff's incident and proposed measures to prevent such an instance from happening

A University of Ghana law student, Sheriff Ibrahim, has passed away, breaking the hearts of his friends and loved ones.

The sad news was reported on the X page of Radio Universe and confirmed by the Ketu North Member of Parliament, Edem Agbana.

Sheriff Ibrahim was reportedly participating in the fun games organised under the Dean's Cup, as part of the LSU Week celebrations, when he suddenly collapsed and passed away.

"Today has shaken us in ways we could never have imagined. What began as a joyful celebration of unity and community during our LSU Week has turned into a day of immense sorrow. The tragic passing of our dear friend and colleague in the very course of activities meant to bring us together has left us heartbroken," a statement from the school said.

"We extend our deepest condolences to the PFD400 class and to all who knew and loved him. There are no words that can truly capture the weight of such a loss, especially under these circumstances. We feel it with you," it added.

The incident, according to the statement from the University of Ghana Law School, marred the beauty of the whole LSU Week celebration.

Following Ibrahim's demise, other activities of the celebration, including a scheduled dinner, were cancelled.

Meanwhile, Sheriff has been buried in line with Islamic traditions and customs. A vigil is also expected to be held for Sheriff on Monday, June 9, 2025.

See the University of Ghana Law School's post below:

Edem Agbana sympathises with Sheriff's family

Ghanaian Parliamentarian, Edem Agbana, took to social media to express his feelings about the passing of Sheriff whom he described as a good friend.

"A friend joined his law school mates for fun games. Just before kickoff, he collapsed and died. Such a vibrant soul, gone in a moment. Life is fleeting. May God help make our short stay here worthwhile. Rest In Peace, Sheriff," he said.

See Edem Agbana's post expressing his feelings on Sheriff's passing below:

Ghanaians react to Sheriff Ibrahim's passing

Netizens who saw the post of Sheriff's passing were heartbroken and expressed their views in the comments section.

@Gabbro23_ wrote:

"This is sad! Hmmm! Charlie, let's do exercise and have a good rest. We shouldn't overdo what our body can do. God, please remember him on the last day and comfort his family for now."

@VivianVee17 wrote:

"He is my brother 😭😭😭😭😭 and like Hon.. Said, just the kickoff, he bowed to lace his shoes, and collapsed on the spot.😭😭😭 Oh Uncle Sheriff, as his nephew and nieces call him 😭😭. How will Daniella survive on campus now without you😭😭 Oh Sheriff, why now💔💔."

@Dondeyhighme wrote:

"People should know their heart condition before engaging in vigorous exercise. If you don't do regular cardio and you start up at once after a long time, you may get CA."

Nurse pushes for timely checkups for athletes

In an exclusive interview, nurse Abigail Agyapongmaa opened up about what may have caused Sheriff's sudden demise. Also, she recommended some preventive measures for Sheriff's case.

"Sudden collapse and death during physical activity, though rare, is often due to undiagnosed cardiac conditions such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, or congenital heart defects. As healthcare professionals, we advocate for proactive, preventive care, timely recognition of warning signs, and the availability of emergency response systems at all sporting venues."

"I also advise all athletes to undergo regular health check-ups, including ECGs, echocardiograms, and stress tests if needed. They should also not ignore symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, palpitations, or shortness of breath during training or competition," she said.

What universities should do when a student tragically passes on

When a university loses a student, primarily in tragic or unexpected ways, the university must react in a thoughtful, responsible, and communicative way. The most pressing factor is to ensure that a student's death is being handled with sensitivity and dignity.

First and foremost, the institution must be prepared to confirm the death, provide notification to the family of the student, and have one or more counsellors or welfare officers accompany them to offer immediate support. Universities should make bereavement support available to family, friends, classmates, and faculty who were impacted, including but not limited to access to counselling services and emotional care resources.

An official inquiry should commence on time to ascertain the basis and context leading to the death, especially if the death arose in the course of a university activity. Communicating with transparency is important to disprove fabrications and demonstrate accountability. At the same time, the university should review its relevant health, safety, and emergency procedures to identify lapses and prevent future occurrences.

Public memorials or moments of remembrance, such as vigils or memorial services, can provide closure for the university community. Also, establishing a scholarship or fund in the name of the student is one way their memory can be honoured. Ultimately, how a university responds to the loss of a student demonstrates how much it values the well-being of its entire community.

UG final-year student passes away

In a related development, YEN.com.gh reported that a final-year student at the University of Ghana passed away, leaving his loved ones in mourning.

The young man, identified as Horlali Wisdom, was involved in an accident that claimed his life.

Netizens who saw the post were heartbroken and expressed their views in the comments section.

Proofreading by Samuel Gitonga, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.

Source: YEN.com.gh