A celebratory event at the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, turned into a scene of tragedy on Wednesday when a graduating student, Babalola Marvelous Ishola, was shot dead during a sign-out party.
According to police sources, the incident occurred at about 5:38 p.m. when Ishola’s lifeless body was discovered by the roadside. The discovery was quickly reported to security operatives, who rushed to the scene. His identity was confirmed through personal belongings found on him, and later by the university’s Dean of Student Affairs.
The sign-out party, a long-standing tradition among final-year students to mark the completion of their academic journey, had reportedly attracted a large crowd of students and well-wishers. However, the celebration was marred by chaos after the sound of gunfire sent panic through the gathering. Witnesses said the atmosphere shifted instantly from joy to confusion as students fled for safety.
In a swift response, the Nigeria Police Force’s Monitoring Unit launched a coordinated sting operation, leading to the arrest of 16 suspects believed to be connected to the shooting. Authorities have assured the public that investigations are ongoing to uncover the motive behind the killing and to bring all perpetrators to justice.
The remains of the deceased have been deposited at the morgue of the LAUTECH University Teaching Hospital for preservation and autopsy.
The killing has sparked outrage and fear within the LAUTECH community and the wider Ogbomoso area. Students, parents, and residents have called for tighter security measures during university events, especially during periods of mass gatherings such as matriculations, convocations, and sign-out celebrations.
The Oyo State Police Command has appealed for calmness, while reiterating its commitment to ensuring that justice is served.
