The management of Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, has confirmed the tragic death of an undergraduate student, Otabor Boluwatife Joseph, who succumbed to injuries sustained during a fatal armed robbery incident. The confirmation came on Thursday, June 4, 2026, following days of mourning by his colleagues after Joseph spent approximately four days in the hospital.
Details of the Incident
Joseph, a student of the Department of History and International Studies, Faculty of Arts, was attacked by armed robbers off-campus in the Iba area of Lagos on the night of Friday, May 29. He was rushed to a medical facility but died on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, four days after the assault.
The university’s statement, signed by Olaniyi Jeariogbe, Acting Coordinator of the Centre for Information and Public Relations, expressed profound sadness over the loss. It was shared on LASU’s verified social media platforms and obtained by Legit.ng.
University Response
Upon receiving reports of the incident, the university acted swiftly. Through the Acting Dean of Students’ Affairs, Dr. Abiodun Fatai-Abatan, immediate support was provided, the matter was escalated to the Vice-Chancellor, and contact was maintained with medical personnel involved in Joseph’s treatment. The university monitored his condition closely throughout his hospitalization.
Vice-Chancellor Distinguished Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola Olatunji-Bello extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones of the deceased. “Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this tragic loss,” the statement read.
Investigation and Justice
LASU confirmed it is actively cooperating with police operatives and other security agencies to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack and ensure those responsible are brought to justice. The university prayed for the family to bear the “irreparable loss” and for the soul of Otabor Boluwatife Joseph to rest in perfect peace.
Broader Context
Armed robbery attacks targeting higher institution students living off-campus are a recurring issue in Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation. The incident has sparked renewed concern over student safety in off-campus accommodations.
Previous News
In related developments, LASU had earlier opened applications for the 2026/2027 post-UTME and Direct Entry admission screening exercise and won a N25 million JAMB admission performance award after being named the most preferred school. The Vice-Chancellor had also congratulated students as the second semester examinations for the 2025/2026 academic session commenced, urging diligence and reiterating the university’s zero-tolerance policy on examination malpractice.
