FUTO closes for fumigation amid protests over student death

The Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) has ordered its students to take a two‑week break so that the administration can fumigate and renovate the hostels.

The directive was issued by the university registrar, Mr Chiedozie Uba, in a circular dated 31 May. The circular, signed by Uba, was made available to newsmen in Owerri on Monday.

Uba instructed students to resume academic activities on 15 June.

In a related move, the Student Union Government (SUG) issued a circular suspending academic activities for one week.

SUG President Mr Christopher Chukwuebuka explained that the suspension was necessary to address the circumstances surrounding the recent death of a student.

Chukwuebuka said the death was linked to members of the university’s Man O’War unit.

“This incident has sparked widespread concern and demands for justice,” he said. “The SUG has repeatedly communicated with university management and relevant authorities through the Dean of Student Affairs about cases of brutality and student safety. Regrettably, no decisive action was taken until this tragedy occurred.”

He added that the suspension was intended to demand transparency and accountability. “This suspension will remain until management provides a detailed official statement on the incident, concrete steps for investigation and justice, and verifiable measures to prevent recurrence,” Chukwuebuka said.

The union is scheduled to meet with management to discuss how to ensure students’ protection and welfare are prioritised.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the deceased, a first‑year Cyber Security student, died on 30 May after alleged torture by members of the Man O’War unit over an alleged theft of N13,500.

Police Public Relations Officer DSP Henry Okoye confirmed that three suspects had been detained and investigations had begun. Okoye said the deceased was critically injured after alleged restraint and severe torture by the suspects.

He added that the deceased was declared dead at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri, and was deposited at the morgue for preservation and autopsy. The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a comprehensive investigation, with a promise that justice would be served.

(NAN)

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