LAUTECH Students Raise Alarm Over Rising Campus Robberies, Call for Urgent Security Measures

Students of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Oyo State, have voiced grave concerns over the alarming surge in robberies on and around the campus. They are calling on the university management, the Soun of Ogbomoso, and the Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Seyi Makinde, to take immediate action to protect students’ lives and property.

Over the past few months, students have been repeatedly targeted by armed robbers, particularly during late hours. These attacks have left many traumatized, with reports of stolen valuables, including laptops, mobile phones, and cash. Some victims have also suffered physical harm, further heightening fears of insecurity among the student population.

Speaking anonymously to Loadedmore Media, a group of students expressed frustration over the worsening situation.

“We no longer feel safe, whether on campus or in the surrounding areas. The robberies have become too frequent, and it feels like nothing is being done to protect us,” one student lamented.

The students highlighted that most attacks occur at night, often when they are returning from lectures, extracurricular activities, or study sessions. They further pointed out that the dissolution of the LAUTECH Students’ Union Government has significantly weakened their ability to advocate for their welfare, leaving them without a formal platform to address pressing concerns like campus security.

“The absence of a functioning union government has created a vacuum, making it difficult for students to unite and demand necessary changes from the administration and relevant authorities,” another student noted.

In response to these challenges, the students are urging the university to implement stronger security measures, including:

• Increased security personnel on campus and surrounding areas.
• Installation of more streetlights and CCTV cameras to deter criminal activities.
• Collaboration with law enforcement agencies for enhanced patrols and crime prevention strategies.

They are also appealing to the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye Afolabi Orumogege III, and Governor Seyi Makinde to prioritize the safety of students and work towards ensuring that Ogbomoso does not remain a hotspot for crime.

“We need urgent intervention before more students fall victim to these heinous crimes. Our education should not be threatened by fear and insecurity,” a student representative pleaded.

While the university management has acknowledged the issue and pledged to improve security, many students feel that responses have been slow and ineffective. They now urge swift and coordinated action from all stakeholders to address the root causes of these robberies, strengthen law enforcement, and restore a secure learning environment.

As tensions rise, students remain on edge, awaiting decisive steps from authorities. Their safety remains at risk, and they are determined to continue their fight for a secure and conducive academic environment.