Bank manager shot dead by kidnappers in Imo State

A branch manager of Polaris Bank, known as Mr Ossy, has been killed by suspected kidnappers after he reportedly resisted an attack near the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, in Imo State.

This sad event took place on Sunday evening. The banker, who lived in Owerri, was said to be dropping off his children at the university when the gunmen struck.

Sources say the late banker was at the university to drop off his kids, who are students there, when he was confronted by the attackers. Two female students were also reportedly taken away by the armed men during the chaos.

The bank released a statement on Tuesday, signed by Rasheed Bolarinwa, the Head of Brand Management & Corporate Communication. In the statement, the bank confirmed that the deceased was attacked while taking his children to school.

According to the bank, the children managed to escape, but the manager was not as lucky. “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.

The management of FUTO confirmed that a visitor was fatally shot on the university campus during the incident. In a statement signed by the Registrar, Chinonso Uba, the university said two female students were also kidnapped.

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 led the FUTO management to meet with the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, on Monday regarding the rising security issues around the university and its surrounding areas.

During the meeting, Bosso assured the university management of increased security around the institution and nearby communities, especially in Ihiagwa, Eziobodo, Obinze, and Nekede.

A source, who chose to remain anonymous, mentioned that a planned peaceful protest by some students over the killing was cancelled. This was after the university reaffirmed its ban on unruly gatherings following examinations.

The FUTO Senate had banned all forms of disruptive celebrations after exams during its 495th and 501st meetings on August 31, 2023, and April 29, 2024, due to damage to university property by graduating students.

The university management also confirmed this ban at its seventh meeting on Monday, September 7, 2026, warning students against any activities that could disturb the peace of the university and its host communities.

The management listed prohibited activities such as rowdy behaviour, public celebrations, disorderly conduct, littering, blocking roads and entrances, and damaging university property.

They also warned against any actions that could threaten the safety and security of the university community.

As of now, the police have not announced any arrests related to the killing and abduction.