Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomosho, has been thrown into a mournful mood as a final-year student, Babalola Marvelous Ishola, was tragically shot dead during his sign-out ceremony on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
The killers remain unknown even as police said they have made arrests.
According to eyewitnesses, victim was part of he hundreds of students rejoicing over their completing four to six-year courses in various disciplines.
However, happiness turned to mourning when the killers struck around 5:30pm on a road around the university campus.
Ishola’s lifeless body in a pool of blood was discovered by passersby who quickly alerted security authorities.
Police operatives conducted a preliminary search of his belongings, leading to his identification.
According to the Department of Student Affairs at LAUTECH, the victim was a bonafide student of the institution and had recently completed his final exams.
His remains were taken to the LAUTECH University Teaching Hospital mortuary, even as investigations continue.
The news of Babalola’s death has sparked widespread sorrow and outrage across the LAUTECH community and beyond.
Students, parents, and staff have taken to social media and local radio stations to mourn the untimely loss and demand justice.
Responding swiftly, the Oyo State Police Command activated its Monitoring Unit, which launched an immediate investigation into the case.
By Thursday morning, a sting operation had resulted in the arrest of 16 individuals suspected to be connected with the shooting.
A spokesperson for the command confirmed the development, stating that a full-scale investigation is ongoing to uncover the motive behind the shooting and the identity of the actual shooter.
“This is a deeply unfortunate incident, and we are determined to get to the bottom of it. All those found culpable will face the full wrath of the law,” the spokesperson said.
The entire LAUTECH community remains in a state of grief and shock.
What was supposed to be a day of celebration and reflection for graduating students has now become a symbol of tragedy and insecurity.
Many students and faculty members are now calling for tighter security protocols during sign-out events, urging the school authorities and security agencies to regulate post-exam celebrations more effectively to prevent further violence.
“We came here to study and celebrate success—not to lose our lives on the very day we should be rejoicing,” said a fellow final-year student who attended the same event.
