Imo Kidn*p: Polaris Bank Manager Slain at FUTO; Students Abducted

A branch manager with Polaris Bank, identified as Mr. Ossy, has tragically lost his life after being shot by suspected kidn*ppers in Imo State. The incident, which also saw the abduction of two female students, took place on Sunday evening within the premises of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).

Reports indicate that Mr. Ossy, who was based in Owerri, was dropping off his children, who are students at FUTO, when he was confronted by the assailants. He reportedly resisted the attack, leading to his fatal shooting. The children managed to escape the scene unharmed, but the bank manager was not as fortunate, according to a statement from Polaris Bank.

In a press release issued on Tuesday and signed by Rasheed Bolarinwa, the Head of Brand Management & Corporate Communication, Polaris Bank expressed profound sorrow over the loss. "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 statement read. The bank confirmed the incident occurred on Sunday and that while the children escaped, Mr. Ossy did not. They also noted that law enforcement agencies are investigating the matter and urged the public to allow the authorities to conclude their inquiries.

FUTO management also confirmed the security breach on campus, stating that a visitor was fatally shot. Registrar Chinonso Uba, in a statement, verified that two female students were reportedly abducted during the September 6, 2026 incident. The university reiterated its commitment to the safety of its community, confirming ongoing investigations and engagement with relevant authorities for the safe return of the abducted students. Additional security measures are being implemented, and students and staff were advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.

Following the incident, FUTO management held a meeting with the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, on Monday to address the escalating security concerns both within the university and its surrounding communities, including Ihiagwa, Eziobodo, Obinze, and Nekede. CP Bosso assured the university of intensified security efforts in these areas.

Meanwhile, a planned peaceful protest by some students regarding the killing was called off. This followed the university's re-affirmation of its ban on disruptive and unruly gatherings post-examinations. The FUTO Senate had previously implemented this ban in August 2023 and April 2024, citing instances of property destruction. The prohibition was re-emphasized at a meeting on September 7, 2026, cautioning students against activities such as rowdy behaviour, public revelry, disorderly conduct, littering, road obstruction, property damage, or any actions threatening campus safety.