Fear Grips UNIBEN Community After Student Shot Dead Near Campus Gate
By Wellington Jopelo
Panic spread across the University of Benin community after gunmen reportedly killed a student near the school’s main gate in a late-night attack that also left two others injured.
The victim, whose identity had not been officially released at the time of reporting, was said to be driving out of the Ugbowo campus in a Mercedes-Benz when masked attackers opened fire at close range.
Eyewitnesses claimed the student had completed an examination in the Political Science Department shortly before the incident happened.
Two other occupants of the vehicle reportedly survived the shooting with injuries and were rushed to the University of Benin health centre for emergency treatment.
Students around the area described the scene as chaotic, with many fleeing in fear after hearing multiple gunshots close to the campus entrance.
Security operatives from the Ugbowo Police Division later arrived at the scene and evacuated the victim’s body while investigations began into the attack.
Police authorities said details surrounding the shooting were still unclear, while the Edo State Police Command had yet to issue a full official statement on the incident as of the time of reporting.
The killing has reignited concerns over student safety and recurring violent attacks linked to cult-related clashes around tertiary institutions in Edo State.
The incident also came barely days after another reported machete attack involving a student near the Social Science Lecture Theatre within the university environment.
Many students have since taken to social media demanding tighter security around the campus and surrounding areas, especially during evening hours.
As investigations continue, anxiety remains high among students and residents who fear the attack may signal another wave of violence around the university community.