LASU student dies days after robbery attack in Iba

By Esther Onyegbula

The Lagos State University (LASU) community is grieving after the death of student Otabor Boluwatife Joseph, who died from injuries sustained during an armed robbery in the Iba area of Lagos.

Joseph, a History and International Studies student in the Faculty of Arts, was severely injured when he and several friends were attacked by suspected armed robbers on the night of May 29, 2026, outside the university campus.

In a statement, university officials described the incident as a tragic loss and expressed deep sorrow over the student’s death. They said Joseph was rushed for medical care immediately after the attack and that the university activated emergency support measures upon receiving reports of the incident.

“The university community received with profound sadness the news of the passing of Otabor Boluwatife Joseph, a student of the Department of History and International Studies, Faculty of Arts, who succumbed to injuries sustained during a violent robbery attack in the Iba area on Friday, May 29, 2026,” the statement read.

Vice‑Chancellor Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji‑Bello extended her condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased, affirming that the institution shares in their grief.

“The Vice‑Chancellor expresses her heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, colleagues and loved ones of the deceased student and assures them that the university stands with them in this difficult time,” the statement added.

Acting Dean of Students’ Affairs Dr. Abiodun Fatai‑Abatan coordinated the university’s response immediately after the incident, keeping management updated on Joseph’s condition and maintaining close communication with the medical team treating him.

Despite the efforts of healthcare professionals, Joseph died on Tuesday, June 2, 2026.

Following his death, LASU representatives met with the bereaved family, officials from the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), and law‑enforcement authorities to ensure justice for the deceased.

The university confirmed that it is collaborating with security agencies investigating the robbery and remains confident that the perpetrators will be apprehended and prosecuted.

“We are working closely with relevant security agencies in the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack and remain confident that the perpetrators will be identified and brought to justice,” the statement noted.

LASU urged staff, students and other stakeholders to support the bereaved family during the mourning period and prayed for the repose of Joseph’s soul while calling for calm as investigations continue.

The incident has heightened concerns about security in communities surrounding tertiary institutions in Lagos, prompting stakeholders to call for stronger measures to protect students and residents from criminal attacks.

The post LASU student dies days after robbery attack in Iba appeared first on Vanguard News.