RismadarVoice Reporters
September 11, 2026
Two female students of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), who were abducted during a violent security incident around the university’s Ihiagwa axis, have regained their freedom.
The university confirmed their return in an official statement issued on Friday by its Public Relations Officer, Mr Orakwe Ezugwu.
According to management, the victims identified in earlier reports as Spencer Jennifer Adaeze, a 300-level Optometry student, and Chioma Lilian Igwegbe, a recent Biology graduate, are safe and currently undergoing medical evaluation and psychological care at the FUTO Medical Centre.
FUTO Vice-Chancellor, Prof. I.N.S. Dozie, has also visited and met with both students following their release.
The duo was seized on Sunday, September 6, 2026, during an armed attack that also claimed the life of a Polaris Bank branch manager. The bank executive was shot dead after encountering the armed group while driving his children to the university campus; his children escaped unharmed.
Extending gratitude to law enforcement agencies for their intervention, FUTO management assured the university community that enhanced security measures remain active across campus and surrounding settlements.
“Members of the FUTO community are advised to remain calm, stay alert, and immediately report suspicious persons or activities to the appropriate authorities,” Ezugwu stated.
The university did not clarify whether a ransom was paid or if suspects were arrested in connection with the rescue. Security agencies are maintaining active investigations into the attack.
