Polaris Bank Mourns As Kidnappers Kill Branch Manager In Imo

Polaris Bank has expressed grief over the death of one of its branch managers, identified as Mr Ossy, who was shot by suspected kidnappers at the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Imo State.

The banker was attacked on Sunday evening while taking his children to the university, where they are students.

It was gathered that the children escaped, but the branch manager was killed by the gunmen who also abducted two female students during the incident.

According to Punch, sources said the banker had arrived at the university to drop off his children when the suspected kidnappers confronted him.

The bank manager was reportedly shot after resisting the attack.

However, Polaris Bank described the incident as an attack by hoodlums.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by its Head of Brand Management and Corporate Communication, Rasheed Bolarinwa, the bank said the manager was attacked while taking his children to the university.

The bank said the children were able to flee from the scene, while their father was killed.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of our Branch Manager and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones during this difficult time.

“The unfortunate incident occurred on Sunday, when he was accosted by the hoodlums, and while the children managed to escape from the scene, he was not that lucky.

“We understand that the matter is being investigated by the relevant law enforcement agencies, and we trust that the circumstances surrounding the incident will be thoroughly established.

“Our thoughts and prayers remain with the family of the deceased, and we respectfully urge the public to allow the authorities to complete their investigations,” the bank stated.

FUTO management also confirmed that a visitor was killed on the university campus during the attack.

In a statement signed by the university Registrar, Chinonso Uba, the institution said two female students were also reportedly taken away by the attackers.

The statement read, “The management of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri is deeply saddened by the tragic security incident that occurred on the university campus on Sunday, September 6, 2026, during which a visitor to the university was fatally shot.

“Two female students were also reportedly abducted during the incident. The circumstances are currently under investigation by the relevant security agencies, and management is engaging with the appropriate authorities regarding the safe recovery of the students.

“Management assures students, staff, parents and the entire university community that the safety and security of all members of the university community remain a top priority. Additional security measures are being implemented in collaboration with the relevant security agencies.

“Members of the University community are urged to remain calm and vigilant, avoid unnecessary movement and promptly report any suspicious activity.

“Further information will be provided as appropriate.”

Following the incident, FUTO officials met with the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, on Monday to discuss security concerns around the university and surrounding communities.

Bosso reportedly assured the university that security operations would be strengthened around FUTO and nearby areas, including Ihiagwa, Eziobodo, Obinze and Nekede.

Meanwhile, a source said plans by some students to stage a peaceful protest over the killing had been called off after the university reminded students of its ban on unruly gatherings following examinations.

The university had previously prohibited post-examination celebrations and other activities considered capable of causing disorder or damaging school property.

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