Babcock University Student Dies by Suicide After Academic Suspension

A 20-year-old final-year Computer Science student at Babcock University, Joshua Lawson, has died by suicide after being suspended for one academic session over alleged examination malpractice.

Lawson reportedly took his own life at his family home in Lagos on Wednesday, June 25, 2025, following the suspension, which would have delayed his graduation scheduled for July 27.

### **Disciplinary Action and University’s Response**
Joshua Suleiman, the university’s Director of Communication and Marketing, confirmed that Lawson faced a disciplinary panel and was found guilty of examination infractions, resulting in a one-year suspension.

“He was a 400-level student who appeared before the disciplinary committee, was found culpable, and received a one-year academic suspension,” Suleiman told *The Guardian*. He emphasized that the incident occurred off-campus and that the university was unaware of the circumstances leading to Lawson’s death.

### **Student Outcry Over Fair Hearing**
The tragedy has sparked outrage among students and Nigerians, with many accusing the university of unfair treatment. A social media post by an X user alleged that Lawson’s appeals were ignored for weeks before he was reportedly mocked during a meeting with school officials.

“After weeks of no response to his appeal, they finally called him in, only to laugh in his face and dismiss his case,” the post read. The user also claimed the allegations were unproven and that the university failed to consider Lawson’s side.

### **Calls for Compassion in Disciplinary Measures**
This incident follows another suspected suicide in July 2024, when a Babcock student reportedly took their life after failing to graduate. Students are now urging the institution to adopt more compassionate disciplinary processes, citing the severe mental health toll of harsh penalties.

Babcock University’s guidelines stipulate strict consequences for academic misconduct, including suspension or expulsion after a fair hearing. However, critics argue that the system lacks adequate emotional and psychological support for accused students.

Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on Lawson’s death, but the incident has reignited debates on academic pressure, mental health awareness, and institutional accountability in Nigerian universities.

*—Reported by [Your News Outlet]*