ABSU Condemns Murder Near Campus, Assures Public of Safety and Ongoing Activities
The Management of Abia State University, Uturu (ABSU), has strongly condemned the recent gruesome murder of a commercial motorcyclist, Osinachi Asonye, by unidentified gunmen near the university’s main gate.
In a statement released on Sunday in Umuahia, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Chijioke Nwogu, expressed the university’s deep concern over the incident and the rising insecurity around the Uturu and Okigwe communities.
Describing the killing as “reprehensible,” Nwogu clarified that the incident occurred outside the university premises, not within the school as some narratives have falsely claimed. He emphasized that academic and non-academic activities are ongoing as usual within the campus and urged the public not to panic or be misled.
“The management notes with grave concern the disturbing cases of security challenges reported in the media lately in Uturu and Okigwe areas bordering the university,” Nwogu stated. “The public should note that none of the reported incidents happened inside the university, as many false narratives tried to portray, but around the communities bordering the university.”
He stressed that the security issues being reported reflect the broader national insecurity affecting various parts of Nigeria, and not a direct threat exclusive to the university or its students.
In response to the incident, security agencies have launched a manhunt for the assailants, with the aim of bringing them to justice. According to the ABSU spokesman, security surveillance and patrol have been significantly reinforced in and around the university to ensure the safety of students, staff, and visitors.
“The university management is working closely with relevant security agencies to maintain peace and order in the area,” Nwogu assured.
He called on the media and the public to refrain from spreading unverified reports that could further damage the reputation of the institution or cause undue panic among students and parents.
The university management also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and reaffirmed its commitment to prioritizing the safety and well-being of its community.
