Student Allegedly Dies After Assault by Security Personnel Over ₦13,000 Theft Accusation

 

 

 

A student of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), has reportedly died following an alleged assault by officials of the Man O’ War unit stationed within the institution.

According to reports circulating on social media, the student was accused of stealing ₦13,000 and was allegedly subjected to repeated flogging by the security personnel. The incident reportedly resulted in the student’s death, sparking outrage and calls for a thorough investigation.

Witnesses and concerned observers have questioned why the student was allegedly punished before any formal investigation or due process was carried out. Critics argue that the Man O’ War officials, who serve as auxiliary security personnel within the institution, do not possess the legal authority to detain, assault, or punish students accused of wrongdoing.

Many have maintained that any suspect should have been handed over to the university’s official security department or relevant law enforcement agencies for proper investigation.

The incident has also renewed concerns about allegations of excessive force and brutality by some security personnel operating in tertiary institutions. Some members of the university community have claimed that warnings about the conduct of the unit had previously been raised, prompting calls for accountability and institutional reforms.

As of the time of filing this report, the management of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, had not issued an official statement on the matter. Authorities are being urged to conduct a transparent investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the student’s death and ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable.

The incident has generated widespread reactions, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the use of violence in handling disciplinary and security matters within educational institutions.