The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), has issued a new security and safety advisory to students following recent security concerns within and around the University community.

The advisory, issued by the SUG in collaboration with University Management and relevant security agencies, outlines measures being taken to strengthen security around the campus and surrounding areas.

FUTO SUG security and safety advisory

The development comes after recent security incidents around the University community, including the September 6 incident that led to the death of a visitor and the reported abduction of two female students. FUTO Management had earlier confirmed the incident and said security agencies were investigating the circumstances surrounding it.

Increased Security Patrols Around FUTO

According to the SUG advisory, following the recent visit of the FUTO Vice-Chancellor, Prof. I.N.S. Dozie, to the Imo State Commissioner of Police, additional security measures are being put in place around the University.

The SUG stated that security patrols will be conducted through various parts of the campus and its surroundings, including the NDDC Hostel axis.

The advisory further states that security personnel will be stationed at both the back gate and front gate within the University environment.

The move comes as security authorities intensify operations around FUTO and its host communities. The Imo State Police Command recently confirmed that patrols and security operations had been stepped up around areas of concern, including the Ihiagwa, Eziobodo, Obinze and Nekede axes.

Clearing of Overgrown Areas

The SUG also announced plans to address environmental factors that could compromise visibility and security around the NDDC axis.

According to the advisory, arrangements are being made to clear overgrown bushes and other secluded areas around the NDDC axis.

The SUG also said palliative work would be carried out on the road to improve visibility and ease the movement of vehicles along the route.

SUG Clarifies Hostel B Incident

FUTO SUG security and safety advisory

In a separate disclaimer, the SUG also addressed reports surrounding an incident at Hostel B.

According to the clarification, the incident involved a FUTO student and a commercial motorcycle operator who allegedly engaged in a physical altercation, resulting in injuries to the motorcycle operator.

The SUG expressly stated that there were no casualties or deaths and nobody was stabbed in the Hostel B incident.

The Union said it is engaging the relevant parties to ensure that the matter is properly resolved, while urging students to avoid spreading unverified information.

Students Urged to Remain Vigilant

The SUG and University Management have extended their sympathies to the families and individuals affected by the recent security incidents.

Students have been urged to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative with security personnel as efforts continue to strengthen safety within and around the University community.

The SUG also encouraged students to promptly report suspicious activities or movements to the appropriate authorities.

The latest measures reinforce the need for students to exercise caution, particularly around isolated areas and locations where security concerns have recently been reported.

FUTO Central will continue to monitor verified developments concerning security within the University community.