A 300-level student of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBU), Lapai, Niger State, has died by suicide after reportedly losing money meant for house rent to gambling, sparking renewed concern over the pressures facing young Nigerians and the dangers of get-rich-quick schemes.
Kelvin Danlami, a Computer Science undergraduate, was found dead in his off-campus accommodation on Monday, according to the Niger State Police Command. His death has sent shockwaves through the university community, prompting tributes and warnings from students’ leaders and colleagues.
A fellow student, Musa Abdullahi, who described Danlami as a promising undergraduate, said the incident was a painful lesson for young people. In a condolence message, he cautioned against the lure of quick money, noting that the deceased had mismanaged funds entrusted to him for rent after engaging in gambling. “This is how gambling cut short the life of a promising 300-level Computer Science student,” he said, urging youths to avoid risky ventures. He also prayed for comfort for the bereaved family.
The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of IBBU, Lapai, also expressed deep sorrow over the loss. In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Aliyu Abubakar, the union said it received the news of Danlami’s death “with deep sorrow”, describing it as “a tragic and irreplaceable loss” to his family, department and the wider university community.
“On behalf of the entire student community of IBB University, Lapai, we extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, relatives, friends, the Department of Computer Science, and all students of the University over this great and painful loss,” the statement read. The SUG prayed for strength and comfort for those affected, concluding with an appeal for acceptance of its “deepest sympathies”.
Confirming the incident, the spokesman of the Niger State Police Command, Wasiu Abiodun, said the matter was under investigation. He disclosed that at about 10.30am on January 19, information was received that Danlami had been found in his room in the early hours of the day.
“One of the student neighbours who discovered the situation raised an alarm, and the victim was rushed to General Hospital, Lapai, where he was confirmed dead,” Abiodun said. He added that police operatives from the Lapai Division visited the scene, conducted a preliminary investigation and contacted the family of the deceased. “Further investigation is ongoing to ascertain the reason for such action,” he said.
The tragedy has reignited conversations around mental health, financial stress and gambling among students, with calls for greater awareness, counselling support and responsible behaviour within tertiary institutions.
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