LAUTECH CONFIRMS DEATH OF SIX NURSING STUDENTS IN KWARA AUTO CRASH

Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, has confirmed the death of six nursing students in a road accident along the Ilorin–Ogbomoso highway.

In a statement issued on February 24, the institution’s Registrar, Olayinka Balogun, described the incident as a devastating blow to the university community. He noted that the students were on their way to sit for final examinations when the crash occurred.

According to information gathered from within the university, the victims had boarded a commercial vehicle in Suleja, Niger State, heading to Ogbomoso before the accident happened at Otte, Kwara State, on Sunday.

The university identified the deceased as Shehu Nana Firdawsi Hamza, Idris Jamila, Abdulraheem Maimunah Hamza, Blessing Kevwe, Owoicho Elizabeth, and Aroke Ozavize Victoria.

Balogun explained that the students were final-year undergraduates enrolled in the Open and Distance Learning Nursing programme.

“It is with profound sorrow that the management announces the passing of six of our beloved Open and Distance Learning Nursing students in a tragic motor accident along the Ilorin–Ogbomoso road on Sunday, February 22, 2026,” the statement read.

“The victims were travelling in a commercial bus from Suleja, Niger State, to the university to participate in their final examinations when the fatal crash occurred at Otte, Kwara State.

“This heartbreaking event has plunged our entire academic family into mourning. These students embodied determination and aspiration, and their loss is deeply felt across our institution.”

The management extended its condolences to the bereaved families and called on the public to offer prayers for the departed.

“We express our heartfelt sympathy to the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. The university stands with them in this moment of overwhelming grief.

“As we mourn, we invite all well-meaning individuals to join us in praying for strength and comfort for those affected by this irreparable loss.

“May the lives of these young souls inspire us to embrace compassion, resilience, and unity in the face of tragedy,” the statement added.

The crash is the second such tragedy involving final-year students in Kwara State in less than a month.

Earlier on February 5, Kwara State University confirmed the death of Idris Agboluaje, a 400-level student, in an accident near Malete. The university’s Registrar, Dr Kikelomo Sallee, said the student was en route to campus for an examination when the incident happened.