The Rector of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH), Dr .Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul, on behalf of the Governing Council, Management, staff and students of the institution, has expressed profound grief over the tragic death of one of the College students following a shooting incident that occurred outside the College premises.
The institution extended its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased student and prays for the repose of his soul.
“The College has become aware of reports circulating on social media alleging that a Nigerian soldier was responsible for the shooting. The Management wishes to categorically state that there is currently no evidence linking any military personnel to the incident.
Available information gathered from eyewitnesses indicates 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,” a statement by signed by the Rectory, Engineer (Dr) Ibrahim Abdul said.
The College urged 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 said.
Engineer Abdul 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.
“Further updates will be communicated as soon as verified information becomes available,” the Rector concluded
