Panic gripped the host community of Federal University of Technology Owerri on Wednesday night following an invasion by suspected gunmen in Eziobodo.
Viral videos circulating on social media since midnight showed students, traders and motorists fleeing the area in confusion as gunshots reportedly rang out across the community.
The incident reportedly caused widespread fear within the university environment and surrounding areas, forcing many residents to abandon the streets for safety.
One of the victims, said to be a commercial motorcyclist, was seen in one of the videos seated on a bench with his white singlet stained with blood.
The victim, whose left side of the head appeared shaved and covered with medical plaster, recounted how he narrowly escaped death after his passenger insisted on proceeding to his residence in Eziobodo despite reports of danger in the area.
According to him, he had noticed unusual activity along the road and initially attempted to confirm the situation before continuing the journey.
His account suggested that tension had already been building in the area before the attack escalated.
The development sparked fresh concerns among students and residents, many of whom reportedly spent the night indoors amid fears of further violence.
The exact circumstances surrounding the incident, however, remain unclear.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies had yet to issue an official statement confirming the nature of the attack or identifying those responsible.
There was also no immediate confirmation regarding casualties or possible arrests linked to the incident.
The latest security scare adds to growing concerns over safety in communities hosting tertiary institutions across parts of the country.
What You Should Know
The security situation around university host communities has become an increasing concern in several parts of Nigeria, with attacks often disrupting academic activities and causing fear among students and residents.
FUTO, one of Nigeria’s leading technology institutions, serves thousands of students who rely heavily on adjoining communities such as Eziobodo for accommodation and commercial activities. Any prolonged security threat in the area could significantly affect student welfare, movement and local economic activities.
Authorities are expected to clarify the circumstances of the incident and strengthen security presence to prevent further escalation.
