Imo State Police Command has arrested three Federal University of Technology, Owerri, FUTO, students over the alleged beating death of 21-year-old Chinedu Christogonus, a 100-level Cyber Security student.
The incident happened on Saturday, May 31, 2026, after Christogonus was accused of stealing ₦13,500 by members of the university’s Man O’War group.
—“Restrained and severely assaulted”—
Police PPRO Henry Okoye said preliminary findings showed the deceased was restrained and severely assaulted by the suspects, leading to critical injuries. He was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, but was later confirmed dead.
Those arrested are Chukwuemeka Benedict, 21; Kelechi Ikenna, 24; and Obioma Anastasia, 21 – all 500-level students of the institution.
—Campus unrest, property destroyed–
The killing sparked violent protests on campus. Angry students set some buildings ablaze and destroyed property during the unrest.
CP Audu Bosso ordered immediate action on receiving the report. Police arrested the suspects and recovered relevant evidence. The victim’s body has been deposited in the morgue for autopsy.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Owerri for further investigation. Police were directed to identify and question all individuals connected to the incident.
“The command assures the victim’s family, the university community, and the public that no one found culpable would be shielded from justice,” Okoye said.
Residents were urged to remain calm and allow investigation to proceed, as police reiterated commitment to upholding the rule of law.
