Adeosun Ayomide Oluwaseun, a 20-year-old ND2 Mass Communication student at the Ogun State Institute of Technology (OGITECH), Igbesa, has opened up about how losing his right eye dramatically altered his life and aspirations.

Once a lively young man and a talented musician, Oluwaseun dreamed of joining the military. That dream was cut short on Sunday, November 20, 2016, when an accident at home caused him to lose his eye.

Recalling the incident, Oluwaseun explained, “After church, I tried to repair a faulty door. When I struck the nail with a hammer, it flew and hit my right eye. My parents thought it was minor since it didn’t bleed. But a week later, I realized I couldn’t see with my right eye anymore.”

Despite seeking medical help in several hospitals, the damage was irreversible, and he had to undergo surgery to remove the eye to prevent brain damage. The cost of an artificial eye, N100,000, was beyond the family’s means.

Overcoming Daily Challenges

Starting university brought new hurdles. Navigating campus alone, managing assignments, and completing administrative tasks became daunting. “Sometimes I miss steps and rely on instinct to get around. Arranging files and other student duties are stressful because of my impairment, but I keep pushing,” he said.

Oluwaseun’s visual impairment, however, did not stop him from pursuing his passions. Music became his solace. He dedicated himself to learning the talking drum, combining his musical talent with education to carve a path forward.

“Playing my drum brings me joy—it’s like my first wife. Even when I’m down, lifting it fills me with happiness,” he said.

Facing Stigmatization

Life with one eye has not been easy socially. Oluwaseun often wears dark glasses on campus to avoid undue attention, even though it limits his vision and increases the risk of accidents. “People stare when they see I have only one eye. The dark glasses help me move freely, even if it’s difficult to see,” he explained.

A Call for Support

Oluwaseun is appealing to the Ogun State government to provide better learning environments and support for students with disabilities, particularly accessible infrastructure and financial aid.

“I had always wanted to be a soldier, but losing my eye ended that dream. I hope the government can assist me with my education. I want to continue learning and pursuing my music despite the challenges,” he said.