Yabatech Student Killed by Stray Bullet During Security Operation in Lagos

Tragedy struck on Tuesday as Balogun Sultan, a National Diploma II student of Yaba College of Technology, was reportedly killed after being hit by stray gunfire during a security operation in Lagos.

Sultan, who was enrolled in the institution’s distance learning programme, had just completed his examination and was heading home when the incident occurred. What began as a routine academic day quickly turned fatal.

According to fellow students, distance learning candidates typically come to campus for a brief period of in-person lectures ahead of examinations before returning home.

“One of the things about our course is that we only come to campus for exams. We usually have two weeks of in-person lectures before each exam, and after that, we go back home,” a classmate recounted.

Sources said Sultan had completed a Research Methods assignment and boarded a vehicle from the WAEC bus stop en route to Lagos Island, where he resided.

“He was just making his usual trip home. Nothing about the day suggested it would end like this,” another student said.

Eyewitnesses alleged that soldiers had been deployed to the area following reports of a potential cult clash. During the operation to contain the unrest, gunshots were fired, and Sultan was reportedly struck in the crossfire.

“There had been reports of a possible cult clash, and soldiers were deployed to contain it. Unfortunately, Balogun was caught in the crossfire while returning home,” a source disclosed.

Videos circulating from the scene captured panic as residents fled amid the sound of gunfire. Bystanders were seen attempting to administer first aid, pressing clothing against Sultan’s wounds while awaiting medical assistance.

He was subsequently rushed to the Military Hospital in Yaba, where doctors reportedly performed emergency chest surgery. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries.

Friends and classmates described Sultan as calm, focused, and respectful, noting that he kept to himself and remained committed to completing his studies.

“He was quiet and dedicated to finishing his course. Now his family will never see him return home alive,” a grieving friend said.

The incident has left the campus community in mourning, with students expressing shock and sorrow over the loss of a young life cut short under tragic circumstances.