Campus Tragedy: Two Students Arrested Over Murder of 300-Level Biochemistry Undergraduate at Kogi University

Campus Tragedy: Two Students Arrested Over Murder of 300-Level Biochemistry Undergraduate at Kogi University

June 13, 2026

A tragic incident has thrown the academic community of Prince Abubakar Audu University (PAAU), Ayingba, Kogi State, into mourning following the alleged murder of a 300-level Biochemistry student, identified as David Ocholi Solomon.

The shocking development has sparked widespread concern among students, parents, and residents, as authorities move swiftly to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

The management of the university confirmed on Saturday that two students of the institution have been arrested in connection with the killing of the undergraduate. The suspects were reportedly apprehended by the university's internal security team within two hours of the incident before being handed over to law enforcement agencies for further investigation and prosecution.

The disclosure was made during a condolence visit by the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Salisu Usman Ogbo, to the family of the deceased in Lokoja.

According to a statement issued by the institution's Public Relations Officer, Uredo Omale, the university leadership expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate incident and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring justice is served.

Speaking during the visit, Professor Ogbo described the death of the student as a painful loss, not only to his family but also to the entire university community.

The Vice-Chancellor revealed that he received news of the incident while attending the 35th Annual National Conference and Convention of the Nigerian Political Science Association (NPSA) at the University of Ibadan.

"I received news of the unfortunate incident while attending the conference. This is deeply painful and distressing, as the news plunged the entire university community into mourning," he said.

He noted that the institution acted swiftly by mobilising its internal security personnel, leading to the arrest of the suspects shortly after the incident occurred.

"The suspects were arrested by the internal security of the university and have been handed over to the relevant law enforcement agency for further investigation and prosecution," the Vice-Chancellor stated.

Professor Ogbo assured the bereaved family that the university is working closely with security agencies to ensure a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the student's death.

He further disclosed that efforts are ongoing to identify every individual connected to the incident, stressing that no stone would be left unturned in the pursuit of justice.

Reiterating the institution's position on campus safety, the Vice-Chancellor emphasized that Prince Abubakar Audu University maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy toward cultism, violence, and all forms of criminal activities.

According to him, security measures within and around the campus have already been strengthened, while additional reforms are expected to be introduced in the coming days to prevent a recurrence of such a tragedy.

"We remain committed to providing a safe and conducive environment for learning. The university will continue to collaborate with security agencies and stakeholders to protect lives and property within the institution," he added.

Professor Ogbo also commended Kogi State Governor Usman Ododo, traditional rulers, and security agencies for their continued support in maintaining peace and stability within the university community.

Meanwhile, the death of David Ocholi Solomon has continued to generate emotional reactions among students and members of the public, many of whom have called for a speedy investigation and prosecution of anyone found culpable.

Responding on behalf of the family, the deceased's father, Mr. Solomon Idachaba, expressed gratitude to the university management for the condolence visit and praised the swift action taken in arresting the suspects.

While mourning the painful loss of his son, he urged authorities to ensure that justice is not only done but seen to be done.

The case is currently under investigation by security agencies, while students and residents await further details regarding the circumstances that led to the young undergraduate's untimely death.

The tragic incident has once again renewed conversations about student safety, campus security, and the need for stronger measures to combat violence and criminal activities within tertiary institutions across Nigeria