By Isaac Mission
A branch manager with Polaris Bank, identified as Mr Ossy, has been killed by suspected kidnappers during an attack at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), in Imo State.
The incident reportedly happened on Sunday, September 6, 2026, inside the university premises. The banker, who worked in Owerri, was said to have been taking his children to the institution when the attackers accosted him.
According to Polaris Bank, the manager’s children escaped from the scene, but their father was shot dead. Two female students of FUTO were also reportedly abducted during the attack.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the bank’s Head of Brand Management and Corporate Communication, Rasheed Bolarinwa, expressed the institution’s sadness over the death and sympathised with the deceased’s family, colleagues and loved ones.
Polaris Bank said law enforcement agencies were investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident and urged members of the public to allow the authorities to complete their work.
FUTO also confirmed that a visitor to the university was fatally shot during the incident, while two female students were reportedly taken away by the attackers.
The university’s Registrar, Chinonso Uba, said security agencies were investigating the incident and that the institution was working with the relevant authorities to secure the safe return of the abducted students.
FUTO management assured students, staff and parents that security remained a major priority, adding that additional measures were being introduced in conjunction with security agencies.
The institution also advised members of its community to remain alert, limit unnecessary movements and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
Security Measures Intensified
Following the attack, FUTO management held a meeting with the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, on Monday to discuss security around the university and surrounding communities.
The police commissioner reportedly assured the institution that security operations would be strengthened around FUTO and neighbouring areas, including Ihiagwa, Eziobodo, Obinze and Nekede.
Meanwhile, a source familiar with the development said a planned student protest over the killing was called off after the university restated its prohibition of unruly gatherings on campus following examinations.
The restriction, according to the university, dates back to resolutions reached by the FUTO Senate at its 495th and 501st meetings in August 2023 and April 2024. The measures were introduced amid concerns about property destruction and disorder associated with some student celebrations.
Management reiterated the restriction at its seventh meeting on Monday, September 7, 2026, warning students against actions capable of disrupting peace or endangering members of the university community.
Among the prohibited activities are rowdy gatherings, public revelry, disorderly behaviour, littering, indiscriminate waste disposal, obstruction of roads or entrances, and destruction or defacement of university property.
The university further warned that any activity capable of compromising the safety and security of students, staff or other members of the community would not be tolerated.