Two female students of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), Imo State, who were abducted on Sunday, September 6, have regained their freedom.
Education
The students were abducted along the stretch between the institution and Ihiagwa community, triggering concern among students, their families and members of the university community.
Their release on Friday came five days after they were whisked away, as the university management confirmed that the students are now safe and receiving attention for the physical and psychological trauma.
The institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Orakwe Ezugwu, confirmed their release in a statement issued on Friday.
“The Management of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, has confirmed the safe release of the two female students, who were abducted during a security incident on campus on Sunday, September 6, 2026,” Ezugwu said.
He said the students have been taken to the FUTO Medical Centre, where they are receiving medical treatment and psychological support.
“The students are currently receiving medical care and psychological support at the University Medical Centre,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. I.N.S. Dozie, has also visited the students and interacted with them following their return, the statement noted.
The university did not disclose details of how the students were released, whether any ransom was paid or whether arrests have been made in connection with the abduction.
FUTO management, however, commended the police and other security agencies for what it described as their prompt intervention in the incident.
The institution also assured students, members of staff, parents and other stakeholders that measures were being taken to strengthen security around the university.
“Additional security measures are being sustained in collaboration with relevant security agencies,” the university said.
Management urged members of the university community to remain calm but vigilant, while calling on them to promptly report suspicious movements and activities to the appropriate security authorities.