The Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) has directed its students to proceed on a two-week vacation to enable the management to undertake the fumigation and renovation of the hostels.
The university Registrar, Mr Chiedozie Uba, issued the directive in a circular dated May 31, signed and made available to newsmen in Owerri, on Monday.
Uba directed the students to resume for academic activities on June 15.
In a similar vein, the Student Union Government (SUG) also issued a similar circular, directing a temporary suspension of academic activities in the institution for one week.
The SUG President, Mr Christopher Chukwuebuka, who issued the directive in a circular, explained that it became imperative to address the circumstances surrounding the recent death of a student.
Chukwuebuka stated that the student’s death was linked to the members of the Man O’ War unit of the University.
“This incident has sparked off widespread concern and demands for justice.
“The SUG has repeatedly communicated with university management and relevant authorities through the Dean of Student Affairs, regarding cases of brutality and student safety.
“Regrettably, no decisive action was taken until this tragedy occured,” the student union leader stated.
He further explained that the suspension of academic activities aimed to demand transparency and accountability.
“This suspension will remain until management provides detailed official statement on the incident, concrete steps for investigation and justice, and verifiable measures to prevent recurrence,” Chukwuebuka stated.
He added that the union was scheduled to meet with the management to discuss the way forward to ensure that students’ protection and welfare were prioritised.
It was gathered that the deceased, a first year student of Cyber Security, died from alleged torture by members of the institution’s Man O’War on May 30, over alleged theft of N13,500.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Henry Okoye, said three suspects had been detained and investigations had commenced.
Okoye further confirmed that the deceased was critically injured, following alleged restraint and severe torture by the suspects.
According to him, the deceased was declared dead at the Federal University Teaching Hospital, Owerri and had been deposited at the morgue for preservation and autopsy.
He further explained that the incident had been transfered to the State Criminal Investigation Department for comprehensive investigation, promising that justice would be served in the matter.
