A 100-level student of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Imo State, Chinedu Chibuzor Christogonus, has reportedly died after allegedly being assaulted while in the custody of members of the Man O’ War organisation within the institution.
According to Vanguard, sources within the university claimed the Cyber Security student was arrested over an allegation of stealing N13,500 before he was allegedly tortured in detention.
A source who spoke on condition of anonymity alleged that the student died on Saturday as a result of the assault.
“They said he stole N13,500, arrested him and started torturing him until he died on Saturday,” the source alleged.
“The Man O’ War people are fond of harassing and maltreating students without justification,” the source added.
However, another account claimed the incident stemmed from an allegation that the student was caught cooking inside his hostel room.
The incident triggered protests by students, who were said to have destroyed some property within the university environment.
It was also gathered that some of the protesters set ablaze the office of the Man O’ War organisation on campus.
The Imo State Police Command confirmed the incident, saying three suspects had been arrested in connection with the student’s death.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, said preliminary investigations suggested the deceased was assaulted by members of the organisation following a theft allegation.
According to him, the deceased, who was also a member of the Man O’ War organisation, sustained severe injuries during the assault and was later confirmed dead at the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri.
“Operatives of the Imo State Police Command have arrested three suspects in connection with the alleged murder of a 21-year-old student of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Chinedu Chibuzor Christogonus, whose death occurred under suspicious circumstances on May 30, 2026,” Okoye said.
He identified the suspects as Chukwuemeka Benedict, 21; Kelechi Gospel Ikenna, 24; and Obioma Anastasia, 21, all 500-level students of the institution.
“Initial findings indicate that the deceased was allegedly restrained and assaulted, resulting in critical injuries. He was subsequently rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, where he was confirmed dead by medical personnel,” the statement added.
Okoye added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, ordered swift action after receiving the report, which led to the arrest of the suspects.
He further stated that relevant evidence had been gathered and the corpse deposited in a morgue for preservation and autopsy.
The case has since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Owerri, for a full investigation.
“The Commissioner further directed that all persons connected to the incident be identified and investigated, with a view to ensuring that justice is served,” Okoye stated.
He assured that the command would ensure a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death and that anyone found culpable would face the law.
