Kidnappers shot dead a Polaris Bank branch manager, Mr. Ossy, after reportedly resisting a kidnap attempt on the premises of the Federal University of Technology in Owerri, Imo State.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening, while the banker, who lives in Owerri, was purportedly driving his children to university.
During the incident, the fleeing gunmen allegedly kidnaped two female students as well.
According to sources, the late banker was on his way to drop off his children, who are FUTO students, when he was stopped by kidnappers.
However, the bank, in a statement signed by Rasheed Bolarinwa, Head, Brand Management & Corporate Communication, on Tuesday, stated that the deceased was purportedly taking his children to university when he was attacked by hoodlums.
The bank reported that the children were able to flee the scene, but the manager was not so fortunate.
“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.
“We understand that the matter is being investigated by the relevant law enforcement agencies, and we trust that the circumstances surrounding the incident will be thoroughly 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,” the bank stated.
Meanwhile, FUTO officials confirmed that a visitor was fatally shot on the university grounds during the incident.
In a statement signed by Registrar Chinonso Uba, the college reported that two female students were also kidnaped.
The statement read, “The management of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, is deeply saddened by the tragic security incident that occurred on the university campus on Sunday, September 6, 2026, during which a visitor to the university was fatally shot.
“Two female students were also reportedly abducted during the incident. The circumstances are currently under investigation by the relevant security agencies, and management is engaging with the appropriate authorities regarding the safe recovery of the students.
“Management assures students, staff, parents, and the entire university community that the safety and security of all members of the university community remain a top priority. Additional security measures are being implemented in collaboration with the relevant security agencies.
“Members of the university community are urged to remain calm and vigilant, avoid unnecessary movement, and promptly report any suspicious activity.
“Further information will be provided as appropriate.”
The incident prompted FUTO administration to meet with Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, on Monday to discuss the growing security issues around the university and its host towns.
During the discussion, Bosso informed the university’s administration of increased protection around the institution and surrounding communities, particularly the Ihiagwa, Eziobodo, Obinze, and Nekede axes.
Meanwhile, a source who spoke on the condition of anonymity claimed some students’ planned peaceful protest over the assassination had been canceled when the institution reaffirmed its ban on disorderly and raucous gatherings after exams.
At its 495th and 501st meetings, conducted on August 31, 2023, and April 29, 2024, respectively, the FUTO Senate prohibited all types of senseless celebrations following tests, citing willful destruction of university property, notably by graduating students.
The university administration confirmed the prohibition at its seventh meeting on Monday, September 7, 2026, warning students against activities that could disrupt the calm of the institution and its host towns.
Rowdy behavior, public partying, disruptive conduct, littering, indiscriminate garbage disposal, blocking or obstructing roads and entrances, and destroying or defacing university property are all forbidden actions.
The management also warned against any actions that could jeopardize the safety and security of the campus community.
As of the time of reporting this report, the police had not announced any arrests in connection with the killing or kidnapping.
