The Lagos State University (LASU) has confirmed the death of one of its students, Otabor Boluwatife Joseph, following injuries he sustained during an armed robbery attack in the Iba area of Lagos.
The university announced the student's passing in a statement issued on Thursday by its Acting Coordinator, Centre for Information and Public Relations, Olaniyi Jeariogbe.
According to the statement, Otabor, a student of the Department of History and International Studies in the Faculty of Arts, succumbed to injuries sustained during the attack, which occurred off-campus.
“The Management of Lagos State University (LASU) received with profound sadness the news of the death of one of its students, OTABOR Boluwatife Joseph (Matric No. 240341269) of the Department of History and International Studies, Faculty of Arts, following injuries sustained during an armed robbery attack in the Iba area of Lagos,” the statement read.
The university disclosed that the incident occurred on the night of May 29, 2026, when the deceased and some of his friends were reportedly attacked by armed robbers.
Following reports of the attack, LASU said it immediately intervened through the Acting Dean of Student Affairs, Dr. Abiodun Fatai-Abatan, who coordinated support efforts and escalated the matter to the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello.
The institution noted that it maintained close communication with medical personnel overseeing the student's treatment and monitored his condition throughout his hospitalisation.
However, despite efforts to save his life, Otabor died on June 2, 2026.
In response to the tragic development, representatives of the university visited the bereaved family and engaged with officials of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH) as well as law enforcement authorities handling the case.
The university management said it is actively collaborating with security agencies to ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack and to bring the perpetrators to justice.
On behalf of the university community, the Vice-Chancellor extended condolences to the deceased's family, friends and colleagues.
“On behalf of the Management, staff, students and the entire University community, the Vice-Chancellor extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult and painful time,” the statement added.
LASU prayed for the repose of the student's soul and urged members of the university community to support the family as they mourn the tragic loss.
The incident has once again raised concerns over security challenges in communities surrounding tertiary institutions and the safety of students living off-campus.
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