The Imo State Government has commenced the demolition of illegal structures and suspected criminal hideouts around the front gate of Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri, following the tragic death of a 19-year-old student.
The victim, identified as Chibuike Friday, reportedly lost his life in a road accident within the university environment, prompting swift action from state authorities.
The demolition exercise, carried out less than 24 hours after the incident, was led by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, Nze Chinasa Nwaneri, in collaboration with the Owerri Capital Development Authority (OCDA), headed by Frank Nkem.
According to government officials, the operation aims to restore environmental orderliness, improve road visibility, and enhance safety for both motorists and pedestrians.
Several makeshift structures and shanties believed to be used for illicit activities, including drug peddling, were dismantled during the exercise.
Police reports indicate that the fatal accident occurred when a Lexus ES 350, allegedly driven at high speed during an unauthorized street racing activity, struck the student while he was attempting to cross the road.
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Another individual, identified as Bright Ukwuoma, sustained injuries and is currently receiving medical attention.
The driver, Dike Chibuike Micheal, from Oguta Local Government Area, was arrested at the scene after being rescued from an angry mob by law enforcement officers.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Audu Garba Bosso, condemned the reckless driving that led to the tragedy and ordered a comprehensive investigation. He assured the public that the suspect would face prosecution in line with the law.
Residents and commuters in the area have expressed optimism that the removal of the illegal structures will improve traffic visibility, reduce accidents, and curb criminal activities around the university community.
The state government reiterated its commitment to ensuring safer public spaces and preventing future occurrences of such unfortunate incidents.
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