FUTO Suspends Academic Activities After Student Dies Following Alleged Torture

The Management of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) has suspended academic activities following growing protests over the death of a first year student allegedly tortured by members of the institution’s Man O’ War unit.

The decision was announced in a circular issued by the university Registrar, Chiedozie Uba, directing students to vacate campus and resume academic activities on June 15.

The development comes amid mounting anger among students over the circumstances surrounding the death of a freshman in the Department of Cyber Security.

The Student Union Government (SUG) also announced a temporary suspension of academic activities for one week, insisting that students would continue demanding justice and accountability.

In a statement signed by SUG President Christopher Chukwuebuka, the union linked the student’s death to alleged actions by members of the university’s Man O’ War unit.

According to the union, concerns regarding student safety and alleged brutality had previously been raised with university authorities, but no decisive action was taken before the tragedy occurred.

“This incident has sparked widespread concern and demands for justice,” the statement read.

The union explained that the suspension of academic activities was intended to pressure authorities into providing a detailed account of the incident and outlining measures to prevent a recurrence.

The SUG further demanded a transparent investigation, accountability for those responsible and improved safety mechanisms for students.

Sources said the deceased, a first-year Cyber Security student, allegedly died after being subjected to severe torture over accusations involving the theft of N13,500.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed that three suspects had been arrested and detained.

He stated that preliminary investigations indicated the student sustained serious injuries following alleged restraint and torture before being rushed to the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, where he was pronounced dead. 

The body has since been deposited at the morgue for preservation and autopsy.

Okoye added that the matter had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a comprehensive investigation.

He assured the public that justice would be pursued and that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law.

The incident has generated widespread condemnation among students and rights advocates, who are demanding swift action to ensure accountability and prevent future abuses within the institution.