Six LAUTECH Nursing Students Perish in Tragic Road Accident While Heading to Exams
In a devastating incident that has shocked the academic community, six final-year female students from the Open and Distance Learning (ODL) Bachelor of Nursing Science programme at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH), Ogbomoso, Oyo State, have lost their lives in a fatal road traffic accident. The tragic event occurred on Sunday, February 22, 2026, as the students were en route to the university's main campus in Ogbomoso to participate in their semester examinations.
Details of the Fatal Crash
The students, all in their 500 level of the nursing programme, were traveling together when the accident happened. According to preliminary reports, the crash resulted in the immediate death of all six individuals. The bodies of the deceased have been transported and are currently deposited at a local mortuary for identification and further procedures. Authorities have not yet released specific details regarding the cause of the accident or the exact location where it occurred.
University and Official Response
As of now, neither LAUTECH university officials nor relevant governmental agencies have issued an official statement or confirmation regarding the incident. The lack of formal communication has left many in suspense, with students, faculty, and family members awaiting further information. This tragedy highlights the risks associated with student travel, particularly for those in distance learning programmes who must commute to campus for examinations and other academic activities.
Impact on the Academic Community
The loss of these six promising nursing students has sent waves of grief through LAUTECH and the broader educational sector in Nigeria. Nursing programmes are critical for addressing healthcare shortages, and the untimely deaths represent a significant blow to the profession. The incident raises concerns about road safety measures for students, especially during examination periods when travel is frequent. It also underscores the need for universities to implement robust support systems for distance learners who face unique challenges.
This accident serves as a somber reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by students in Nigeria's educational system. As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of these young lives and calls for enhanced safety protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
