OWERRI — Polaris Bank has expressed grief over the killing of one of its branch managers, identified as Mr Ossy, who was reportedly shot dead by suspected kidnappers at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, FUTO, Imo State.
The incident occurred on Sunday, September 6, 2026, within the university premises, while the banker, who was based in Owerri, was reportedly taking his children to the institution.
Two female students were also reportedly abducted during the incident.
In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the Head, Brand Management and Corporate Communication of Polaris Bank, Rasheed Bolarinwa, the bank said the deceased was attacked by hoodlums while taking his children to the university.
The bank said his children managed to escape, but he was killed in the incident.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of our Branch Manager and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones during this difficult time.
“The unfortunate incident occurred on Sunday, when he was accosted by the hoodlums, and while the children managed to escape from the scene, he was not that lucky,” the statement said.
The bank said the incident was being investigated by relevant law enforcement agencies and expressed confidence that the circumstances surrounding the killing would be established.
“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family of the deceased, and we respectfully urge the public to allow the authorities to complete their investigations,” it added.
Meanwhile, the management of FUTO confirmed that a visitor to the university was fatally shot during the incident and that two female students were reportedly abducted.
In a statement signed by the Registrar, Chinonso Uba, the university said the incident occurred on Sunday, adding that the circumstances were under investigation by security agencies.
“Management is engaging with the appropriate authorities regarding the safe recovery of the students,” the statement said.
The university assured students, staff, parents and other members of the community that their safety remained a priority, adding that additional security measures were being implemented in collaboration with security agencies.
It urged members of the university community to remain calm and vigilant, avoid unnecessary movement and promptly report suspicious activities.
Following the incident, FUTO management met with the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, on Monday over security concerns around the university and its host communities.
Bosso reportedly assured the university management of intensified security around the institution and neighbouring communities, particularly the Ihiagwa, Eziobodo, Obinze and Nekede axes.
Meanwhile, a source who spoke on condition of anonymity said a proposed peaceful protest by some students over the killing was cancelled following the university’s reaffirmation of its ban on unruly and rowdy gatherings after examinations.
The ban was adopted by the FUTO Senate at its 495th and 501st meetings held on August 31, 2023, and April 29, 2024, respectively, following concerns over the destruction of university property, particularly during celebrations by graduating students.
The university management reaffirmed the prohibition at its seventh meeting held on Monday, September 7, 2026, warning students against activities capable of disrupting peace on the campus and in neighbouring communities.
The prohibited activities include rowdy behaviour, public revelry, disorderly conduct, littering, indiscriminate disposal of waste, blocking or obstructing roads and entrances, and damaging or defacing university property.
The management also warned against any conduct capable of threatening the safety and security of the university community.
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