In response to a wave of violent attacks on students living off-campus, the management of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) has deployed security operatives to protect students residing in private hostels around Ogbomoso, Oyo State. The move follows reports that suspected herders invaded student hostels, stealing valuables and allegedly killing two individuals.
The university’s decision comes after a disturbing account of the attack circulated, sparking widespread concern. According to multiple reports, the assailants, believed to be armed herders, stormed communities housing LAUTECH students near the Stadium Area last Monday, breaking into hostels and looting expensive gadgets. Eyewitnesses claimed the attackers wielded guns and machetes, leaving students in fear for their lives.
Night of Horror: How the Attack Unfolded
Several students recounted their harrowing experiences to journalists, stating that the attackers entered hostels in the dead of night, ransacking rooms and threatening anyone who resisted. One student, who requested anonymity, described the ordeal:
“We were sleeping when we heard loud bangs on the doors. Before we could react, they broke in and started collecting phones, laptops, and anything valuable. They were armed, and we couldn’t do anything but comply. It was terrifying.”
Beyond the theft, the violence escalated, leading to the reported deaths of two individuals. While details surrounding the casualties remain unclear, sources confirmed that the killings took place near the Under G area of Ogbomoso.
Another student, Tolu Adeyemi, lamented the growing insecurity, stating: “This is not the first time we have experienced such an attack. But this time, it’s worse. We are scared to even sleep at night. We need real security, not just promises.”
University and Local Authorities Take Action
Following the attack, the LAUTECH management, in collaboration with the Ogbomoso North Local Government and security agencies, swiftly convened a meeting to address the security crisis. In a press statement, the university assured students that security patrols would be intensified around off-campus hostels to prevent future incidents.
The statement read: “The office of the Dean of Students is fully aware of the security challenges faced by students. To address this, the Acting Dean of Students organized a security meeting involving the Police Area Commander and other security representatives. The resolution reached mandates constant security patrols to protect students and ensure their safety.”
Furthermore, Ogbomoso North Local Government Chairman, Hon. Ogunlade George, emphasized the commitment of the authorities in securing the university environment. He urged students to remain calm, assuring them that law enforcement agencies had been put on high alert.
A History of Security Concerns
This incident is not an isolated case. Students of LAUTECH have long expressed concerns over rising criminal activities in areas surrounding the university. Reports of hostel break-ins, phone snatching, and violent robberies have plagued the institution for years, with little concrete action taken.
In 2023, a similar attack prompted students to stage protests demanding better security measures, but despite promises of intervention, incidents have persisted. The latest attack has reignited calls for a more sustainable security strategy beyond temporary patrols.
