By James Ogunnaike
Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, was on Thursday thrown into mourning following the killing of a 100-level student by people suspected to be armed robbers.
The deceased, identified as Lawanson Anthony Abiodun, was a student of the Department of Arts and Social Science Education.
The tragic incident reportedly occurred during an armed robbery attack in Ago-Iwoye township, sending shockwaves across the university community and prompting the institution’s management to suspend academic activities for the day in honour of the slain student.
In a statement issued by the university and signed by its spokesman, Mr. Niyi Oduwole, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate incident and extended condolences to the family of the deceased, fellow students and the entire university community.
According to the statement, the Vice-Chancellor, acting on behalf of the University Senate, directed that Thursday, June 18, 2026, be observed as a lecture-free day to enable students and staff mourn the loss.
The statement read: “Following the incident of armed robbery in Ago-Iwoye township that resulted in the tragic loss of one of our students early this morning, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, on behalf of the University Senate, has directed that today, Thursday, June 18, 2026, be declared a lecture-free day.”
While sympathising with students over the death of their colleague, the university management assured members of the institution that steps were being taken to strengthen security within and around the campus.
“The University management expresses its heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and assures students that adequate security measures will be put in place in collaboration with relevant security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property,” the statement added.
The management also appealed for calm among students and urged them not to take actions capable of escalating tensions in the wake of the tragedy.
“Management appeals to the entire student population that, in grieving over the untimely death of their colleague, they should exercise restraint and eschew any action that may further aggravate the situation on the ground. At this critical period, the University management pledges its support to the students and sympathises with them over the loss of their colleague,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the incident and launched an investigation into the killing.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, said that police operatives had commenced efforts to track down those responsible for the attack.
He said: “The Ogun State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the tragic death of a student of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, who was shot by suspected armed robbers in Ago-Iwoye.
“Police operatives responded promptly and have launched a manhunt for the perpetrators. Investigation is ongoing, while the Command commiserates with the family of the deceased and the OOU community and prays that the deceased’s soul rests in perfect peace.”
