For students who move daily between lectures and Lagos bus stops, this tragedy hits uncomfortably close.
The management of Yaba College of Technology has confirmed that the student shot dead on Wednesday at the WAEC bus stop was a National Diploma student of Business Administration in its Open Distance Learning programme.
In a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Adams Adekunle, the college said the deceased was shot after boarding a commercial tricycle to Ebute Metta.
The institution refuted reports that the incident occurred within the campus, although it acknowledged that the student had earlier been on campus to participate in an examination.
According to the statement, the deceased and a friend were heading towards the Mainland and had approached a commercial tricycle, popularly known as Marwa.
“The deceased reportedly entered the tricycle first, and as his friend was about to board, a gunshot rang out. The friend discovered that the deceased had been shot.
“He immediately ran and rallied to seek assistance. Colleagues who were around the bus park promptly rushed to the scene and conveyed the victim to the nearby Military Hospital to seek medical attention.
Sadly, he was confirmed dead shortly after arrival. Upon being informed, the Management of the College swiftly visited the scene to ascertain the facts and engage relevant authorities,” the statement read.
The college dismissed suggestions that the shooting followed a confrontation or clash involving the student.
“Eyewitness accounts from traders in the area, road transport workers, drivers, and passengers present at the time consistently indicated that there was no prior altercation, fight, scramble, or commotion before the gunshot.
“The shooting occurred at the WAEC bus stop opposite the bridge on Herbert Macaulay Road, where he boarded the tricycle going to Ebute Metta, and not within the vicinity of the College. There is no evidence to suggest it was carried out by a soldier or that it originated from within the campus,” the statement added.
The management noted that security agencies, including the police, had commenced a full investigation to determine the identity of the gunman and the motive behind the attack.
It also faulted reports alleging that the student was shot by a soldier, stating that preliminary findings indicated he was shot by an unknown gunman at the Herbert Macaulay Road mini bus park.
“The Management of YABATECH appeals to students, parents, stakeholders and the general public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities while investigations continue.
“The College reaffirms its commitment to the safety and security of its community and will work closely with security agencies to strengthen measures within and around the campus to prevent a recurrence of such a tragic incident,” the statement said.
For many young people who combine school with commuting across Lagos, the incident is a painful reminder that the journey between campus and home can carry unexpected risks.
As investigations continue, students are left hoping not just for answers — but for safer routes around the spaces where their futures are being built.
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