A visit to the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, turned tragic when suspected kidnappers attacked the campus, killing a bank manager and abducting two female students.
The deceased, identified as Ossy, a branch manager with Polaris Bank, was reportedly shot by the assailants while accompanying his children to the university.
The incident took place on Sunday evening, September 6, 2026, as the banker, who lived and worked in Owerri, arrived at the institution to drop off his children, who are students of FUTO.
The children reportedly escaped from the attackers during the incident, but their father was left behind and subsequently killed.
Confirming the incident, Polaris Bank said it was devastated by the death of its branch manager and extended its sympathy to his relatives, colleagues and other loved ones.
The bank’s Head of Brand Management and Corporate Communication, Rasheed Bolarinwa, said the circumstances surrounding the attack were being investigated by the appropriate authorities.
The university also acknowledged the incident, stating that a visitor was fatally shot within its premises. It further disclosed that two female students were reportedly taken away by the attackers.
FUTO said it was liaising with security agencies to facilitate the safe return of the abducted students, while assuring members of the university community that additional measures were being taken to strengthen security.
In response to the attack, the university management held a meeting with the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, on Monday. The police chief promised to intensify security operations around the institution and nearby communities.
The areas listed for increased security attention included Ihiagwa, Eziobodo, Obinze and Nekede, which are among communities surrounding the university.
Meanwhile, plans by some students to stage a protest over the killing were reportedly abandoned after the institution warned against gatherings capable of causing disorder.
FUTO subsequently urged students to remain alert, avoid unnecessary movements and report suspicious activities, while reiterating its prohibition of unruly conduct, obstruction of roads and entrances, and destruction of university property.
No arrest had been announced by the police in connection with the attack, killing and alleged abduction as of the time of filing this report.