A tragic incident has been reported at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), where a 100-level Cybersecurity student allegedly lost his life following an assault by cadets of the Man O’ War Nigeria group over an accusation of theft.
According to circulating reports, the student was accused of stealing the sum of ₦13,000. In connection with the allegation, he was reportedly apprehended by cadets of the university-based paramilitary organization, Man O’ War, and taken into custody for questioning.
Sources claim that the student was subjected to hours of physical assault during the interrogation process. Eyewitness accounts shared on social media allege that despite interventions from fellow students who called for restraint, the treatment of the student continued.
It was further reported that the student later became unresponsive while still in custody. The development reportedly triggered panic and outrage within the campus community, with students protesting and demanding accountability over the incident.
Following the alleged death, tensions reportedly escalated on campus as students called for justice and a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Viral videos circulating online also showed groups of students expressing anger and demanding answers from authorities.
In response to the situation, university authorities were said to have suspended the activities of Man O’ War on campus pending further investigation. However, official confirmation and detailed statements from both the university management and Man O’ War Nigeria are still being awaited at the time of reporting.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians calling for a transparent investigation and appropriate disciplinary action if wrongdoing is established. It has also renewed public debate about the role and conduct of campus-based paramilitary groups in Nigerian tertiary institutions.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as investigations continue.
