A celebratory moment turned heartbreaking at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomosho, as a final-year student, Babalola Marvelous Ishola, was tragically shot dead during his sign-out ceremony on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident happened around 5:30 PM near the roadside close to the university campus. The lifeless body of the young student was discovered by passersby who quickly alerted security authorities. Upon arrival, police operatives conducted a preliminary search of his belongings, leading to his identification.
The Dean of Student Affairs at LAUTECH confirmed that the victim was a legitimate student of the institution and had recently completed his final exams. His remains were taken to the LAUTECH University Teaching Hospital mortuary, where it is being preserved 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.
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.
As the investigation unfolds, students, parents, and Nigerians at large continue to mourn the painful loss of Babalola Marvelous Ishola, hoping that justice will be swift and effective.
