The academic community and the nation at large are reeling from the tragic death of Joshua Lawson, a 400-level Computer Science student of Babcock University, who reportedly took his own life following a disciplinary suspension for examination malpractice.
According to reports, the 20-year-old student died by suicide on Wednesday at his family’s residence in Lagos, shortly after learning of a one-year academic suspension imposed by the university’s disciplinary committee. Lawson, who was on track to graduate with his peers on July 27, was said to be devastated by the decision.
In a statement, Dr. Joshua Suleiman, Director of Communication and Marketing at Babcock University, confirmed the incident and expressed the institution’s deep sorrow. “The university is never happy that anyone dies. We wish this never happened and we commiserate with the family,” he said, while emphasizing that disciplinary actions are guided by institutional policies known to all students.
The incident has ignited a wave of emotional responses on social media, with students and members of the public questioning the severity of the punishment and calling for more compassionate approaches to student discipline. Many have urged educational institutions to balance accountability with mental health support, especially in high-stakes academic environments.
Mental health advocates are also using this moment to highlight the urgent need for accessible counseling services and proactive emotional support systems within Nigerian universities.