Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, was plunged into grief on Thursday after a 100-level student was shot dead by suspected robbers.
The victim, Lawanson Anthony Abiodun, studied in the Department of Arts and Social Science Education. The killing happened during an armed robbery in Ago-Iwoye township and sent shockwaves through campus. The university suspended academic activities for the day to honour him.
In a statement signed by spokesman Niyi Oduwole, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ayodeji Agboola, expressed deep sorrow and offered condolences. The Vice-Chancellor, acting for the University Senate, directed a lecture-free day: “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.”
The management said it would beef up security and sympathised with students: “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.”
Students were urged to stay calm: “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 Ogun State Police Command confirmed the shooting and said it has launched an investigation and a manhunt. DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi 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.”
