YABATECH Rector Clears Air Over Student’s Death

Rector of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), on behalf of the Governing Council and management has expressed grief over the tragic death of one of the students following a shooting incident that occurred outside the College premises.

In a statement released by the management and signed by the rector, Dr. Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, it said the was shot by an unidentified gunman at the mini bus park located at WAEC Bus Stop along Herbert Macaulay Road, after leaving the campus.

According to another report, the Yabatech student named, Sultan Balogun Owolabi, was shot dead by suspected cultists near the institution’s premises.

Conflicting reports stated that the incident occurred on Tuesday around 4pm at the WAEC Bus Stop, Yaba, Lagos, as Balogun attempted to board a commercial bus.

The institution extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased student and prays for the repose of his soul.

Yabatech management categorically stated that there is currently no evidence linking any military personnel to the incident.

The statement read partly, “available information gathered from eyewitnesses indicate that the deceased, a National Diploma student of Business Administration in the Open, Distance and Flexible e-Learning programme, was shot by an unidentified gunman at the mini bus park located at WAEC Bus Stop along Herbert Macaulay Road, after leaving the campus.

‎”The student and a friend had proceeded to the bus stop with the intention of going toward the Mainland. While attempting to board a commercial tricycle (Marwa), a gunshot suddenly rang out. An alarm was promptly raised, and individuals at the scene, including traders, transport workers and other bystanders, quickly mobilised to assist. The victim was rushed to the nearby Military Hospital for emergency treatment, but was unfortunately confirmed dead shortly after arrival.

‎”Upon receiving information about the incident, the Management of Yaba College of Technology immediately visited the scene and engaged relevant security agencies to ensure that appropriate investigations commenced without delay.

‎”Eyewitnesses present at the bus park, including traders, road transport workers, drivers, and passengers, consistently reported that there was no altercation, fight or disturbance before the gunshot was heard. Witnesses confirmed hearing a single gunshot but were unable to identify the individual responsible for it.’’

‎The College therefore urges members of the public to refrain from spreading unverified information, particularly claims that the perpetrator was a soldier, as such assertions have not been supported by any credible evidence.

‎”Management also notes that there is presently no indication that the incident was cult-related, given the absence of any confrontation prior to the shooting.

‎It is also important to emphasise that the incident occurred outside the College premises, specifically at WAEC Bus Stop along Herbert Macaulay Road, and not within the campus environment.

‎”Security agencies, including the police and other relevant authorities, are currently conducting a full investigation into the incident to determine the identity of the perpetrator and the motive behind the attack.

‎”The Rector has appealed to students, parents, and the general public to remain calm and allow the security agencies to complete their investigation without interference from misinformation or speculation.

‎”Yaba College of Technology remains firmly committed to the safety, security and well-being of its students and staff and will continue to work closely with relevant authorities to strengthen security arrangements within and around the College community.