A 300-level student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, has been found dead inside his off-campus apartment in Lapai, Niger State.

The Niger State Police Command confirmed the incident on Tuesday, saying the student was discovered hanging in his room under circumstances suspected to be suicide.

Police Account

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Wasiu Abiodun, said the incident was reported at about 10:30 a.m. on Monday by residents of the area.

According to him, neighbours raised an alarm after noticing that the student had not been seen for some time, prompting them to force open his room.

“Upon entry, the victim was found hanging from the ceiling fan with a piece of cloth tied round his neck,” Abiodun said.

He added that the body was immediately evacuated to the General Hospital, Lapai, where a medical doctor confirmed the student dead.

The police spokesperson said investigation had commenced to ascertain the circumstances that led to the incident.

University’s Position

Reacting to the development, the management of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University described the incident as tragic and expressed sympathy to the bereaved family.

In a statement issued by the Deputy Registrar, Information, Baba Akote, the university clarified that the deceased lived off-campus and that the institution was not involved in any tenancy or financial arrangement between the student and his landlord.

The management urged students and members of the public to avoid speculation and the spread of unverified information, noting that the matter was under police investigation.

Possible Circumstances

Although the police have yet to establish a motive, sources within the university community suggested that the student may have been under financial pressure prior to his death.

Authorities, however, cautioned against drawing conclusions until investigations are concluded.

Campus and Public Reaction

The incident has thrown the university community into mourning, with students expressing shock and grief over the sudden loss.

Some students called for improved student welfare and counselling services, stressing the need for stronger mental health support structures on campuses.

Investigation Ongoing

The police said findings from the investigation would be made public after due process, while the body of the deceased has been deposited at the hospital morgue pending further action by the family.