LASU student killed during robbery in Lagos

Lagos State University (LASU) has shared the sad news of a student's death. Otabor Joseph died from injuries he got in an armed robbery in Iba, Lagos State.

Mr Joseph, who had matriculation number 240341269, was studying in the Department of History and International Studies in the Faculty of Arts.

The robbery happened off campus on Friday, 29 May. He and some friends were attacked by armed robbers. He was taken to the hospital but passed away on Tuesday, 2 June.

On Thursday, Olaniyi Jeariogbe, the Acting Coordinator for the Centre for Information and Public Relations, released a statement. In the statement, the Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, expressed sympathy to the family and the university community.

"On behalf of the Management, staff, students, and the entire University community, the Vice-Chancellor, Distinguished Professor Ibiyemi Ibilola OLATUNJI-BELLO, mni, NPOM, extends heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones of the deceased during this difficult and painful time," the statement said.

The university said they were informed about the attack right away. They worked with the Dean of Students’ Affairs to provide support and stayed in touch with medical staff at Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), where Mr Joseph received treatment.

"Available information indicates that the unfortunate incident occurred off campus on the night of Friday, 29th May 2026, when the deceased and his friends were attacked by armed robbers. Upon receiving reports of the incident, the University, through the Acting Dean, Students’ Affairs, Dr Abiodun FATAI-ABATAN, immediately provided support, escalated the matter to the Vice-Chancellor, and maintained contact with relevant medical personnel involved in his treatment," the statement added.

The university also mentioned they have reached out to Mr Joseph’s family, hospital officials, and security agencies. They are working with the police to ensure a thorough investigation.

"Following the sad news of his passing on Tuesday, 2nd June 2026, representatives of the University engaged with his family, officials of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), and law enforcement authorities. The University is actively cooperating with security agencies to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the attack are thoroughly investigated and those responsible are brought to justice," it stated.

This sad event has renewed worries among students about safety around LASU’s Ojo, Iba area. Students have frequently reported robberies, phone snatching, and attacks at night along routes that connect hostels, bus stops, and nearby communities.

While officials say they are improving security in Lagos’ university areas, students and local residents continue to describe parts of the area as unsafe, especially after dark.

The university prayed for the deceased's soul and for comfort for his family.

"The University, again, condoles with the family and all who knew him and prays that the Almighty God will give them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. We also pray that the soul of OTABOR Boluwatife Joseph rest in perfect peace. Amen," it added.