LASU student killed in robbery attack

The Lagos State University (LASU) has reported the death of one of its students, Otabor Joseph. He died from injuries he got during an armed robbery in the Iba area of Lagos State.

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

The robbery happened off campus on Friday, 29 May. He was attacked alongside some of his friends. After the incident, he was taken to the hospital but sadly passed away on Tuesday, 2 June.

In a statement on X on Thursday, Olaniyi Jeariogbe, the Acting Coordinator of the Centre for Information and Public Relations, shared the news. The Vice-Chancellor, Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, also sent condolences 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 right after the robbery. They coordinated support through the Dean of Students’ Affairs and kept in touch with doctors at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), where Joseph was treated.

"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 reached out to Joseph's family, hospital officials, and security agencies. They are working with the police to ensure a complete 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 said.

This tragic event has brought back old worries among students about safety around LASU’s Ojo, Iba area. Students have often complained of robbery, phone snatching, and attacks at night along paths leading to hostels, bus stops, and nearby communities.

Even though authorities say they are working on security in Lagos’ university areas, students and residents still describe some parts as unsafe, especially after dark.

The university expressed prayers for the deceased’s soul and 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.