The Lagos State University (LASU) community has been thrown into mourning following the death of one of its students, Otabor Boluwatife Joseph, a 100-level student of the Department of History and International Studies, Faculty of Arts.
The undergraduate reportedly died from injuries sustained during an armed robbery attack in the Iba area of Lagos.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the university described the incident as tragic and extended its condolences to the student’s family, friends, and colleagues.
Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, sympathised with the bereaved family on behalf of the institution’s management, staff, and students, noting that the loss was deeply felt across the university community.
According to the university, the attack occurred off-campus on Friday, May 29, 2026, when the student and some of his friends were reportedly accosted by armed robbers.
LASU disclosed that upon receiving information about the incident, the institution, through the Office of the Dean of Student Affairs, immediately followed up on his condition and maintained contact with medical personnel handling his treatment.
Despite efforts to save his life, the student reportedly passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.
The university said it has since engaged with the deceased’s family, officials of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), and relevant security agencies.
LASU further stated that it is cooperating with law enforcement authorities to ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack and to facilitate the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
The institution prayed for the repose of the student’s soul and urged members of the university community to keep his family in their thoughts during this difficult period.
The incident has once again drawn attention to concerns over the safety and security of students residing in communities surrounding higher institutions across the country.
