The management of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, has confirmed the tragic death of a student during an unsanctioned sign-out celebration.
In an official statement released on Wednesday by the university’s Registrar, Mr. Olayinka Balogun, the institution expressed deep sorrow over the incident, which occurred last Wednesday at the Wazo Ultramodern Market in Ogbomoso. The deceased, later identified as Marvelous Olanrewaju Babalola, was a 300-level student of Mechanical Engineering.
According to the university, the incident happened during a sign-out gathering organized by a group of students despite an existing ban. The university had formally prohibited such events since 2023, citing concerns over safety and indiscipline. Hotels and event venues across Ogbomoso were also notified not to host such activities involving LAUTECH students.
"Despite the ban, preliminary investigations indicate that some students went ahead to organize a sign-out ceremony at the Wazo market football pitch," the statement read. "Tragically, a male student was shot during the event and later died from his injuries. Reports suggest he attempted to leave the scene on his motorcycle before collapsing nearby."
Upon receiving a distress call, the Acting Dean of Student Affairs promptly alerted the relevant units of the Oyo State Police Command, including the Monitoring Unit and the Area Command. Officers were deployed to the scene and, through items found in the student’s bag, the university was able to confirm his identity.
His body was transferred to the LAUTECH Teaching Hospital morgue, and his family has been officially notified.
"The university is working closely with law enforcement as investigations continue," the Registrar said. "We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. May his soul rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength during this painful time."
It is worth noting that LAUTECH had initially banned sign-out ceremonies in 2021, citing their potential to promote unruly behavior and endanger student welfare.
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