A final year student of History and Diplomatic Studies at the Tai Solarin University of Education, Ijagun, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, was reportedly killed on the campus premises by suspected cultists on Wednesday.
PUNCH Online gathered from a student who spoke on condition of anonymity that the victim, identified as Olaoye Fabiyi, was reportedly dragged out of examination hall while writing his final papers by some men who dragged him to a corner where they shot at him and hit him with a brick on the head.
The source told our correspondent that the assailants waited to ensure that he was dead before leaving the scene.
Members of the university’s security team were later said to arrived at the scene and took him to the school clinic where he was confirmed dead.
The source said, “They (History and Diplomatic Studies students) were having their final paper today when some boys suspected to be cultists stormed the examination venue and dragged him out.
“They kicked him, shot at him, and hit him with a brick on the head.
“It was when they realised he was lifeless that they left before the school security men came to pick him up to the school clinic, where he was confirmed dead.”
Confirming the incident in a signed statement on Wednesday, the school’s Students Union President, Bethel Olorunfunmi, said efforts to save the life of the victim by medical personnel proved abortive.
Olorunfunmi said, “It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of a tragic incident that occurred today. A fellow student was attacked on the school premises and, despite the best efforts of medical staff at the general hospital, he sadly passed away. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the family and friends of the student during this difficult time.
“In light of this event, we are implementing strict security measures to ensure the safety of all students. Effective immediately, a mandatory curfew is in place, requiring all students to remain indoors starting at 10pm tonight (Wednesday).
“Please, understand that this measure is being taken with your safety as our utmost priority. We are working closely with university authorities and law enforcement agencies, who are conducting a thorough investigation and enhancing security across the campus.”
Also, the National Clerk of the National Association of Nigeria Students, Oladimeji Uthman, confirmed the incident in a telephone conversation with our correspondent on Wednesday.
He added that the NANS leadership is on top of the matter.
He said, “So saddening and disheartening. A final-year student writing his final paper. As leaders, we are on top of the situation.”
Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of the University, Ayotunde Odubela, said she was not aware of the incident when contacted by our correspondent on Wednesday.
“I am not aware of the incident,” Odubela said.