The atmosphere at the Federal University of Technology, Minna (FUTMINNA) was meant to be filled with joy, laughter, and celebration as final-year students marked their long-awaited sign-out day. However, what should have been a memorable moment quickly turned into a day of sorrow and confusion after reports of multiple thefts shook the campus community.
According to eyewitness accounts gathered by our correspondent, two separate but equally heartbreaking incidents occurred on the same day, leaving students and vendors devastated.
Final Exam Turns Painful: Student’s Business Phone Stolen
In the first incident, a graduating student who had just written his final examination recounted how what was supposed to be his happiest day on campus suddenly became one he would rather forget.
The student explained that while he was inside the hall writing his last paper — a moment he had anticipated for years — an unidentified person took advantage of the situation to steal his business phone.
“I walked into the exam hall with pride and excitement, knowing it was my final paper,” he said. “But I walked out with a heavy heart and a missing phone.”
He described the stolen device as the one he used for his personal work and small business, expressing deep disappointment that someone could commit such an act at a time when everyone was meant to celebrate success.
Another Incident: Over ₦100,000 Money Bouquet and Gifts Snatched During Sign-Out
Shortly after that incident, another dramatic event unfolded at the sign-out venue, involving a vendor and some unknown individuals.
According to eyewitnesses, the vendor had arrived with money bouquets, a money tower, and several gift packages meant for a graduating student’s celebration. As preparations were underway for delivery, a man wearing a sign-out shirt reportedly approached the car under the guise of assisting with the items.
Within seconds, he allegedly snatched two wraps of the money bouquet and sped off in a waiting car.
Before the stunned onlookers could react, another group of unidentified young men, believed to be outsiders, rushed in and grabbed the remaining bouquet and gift tower, disappearing from the scene.
The entire episode happened within moments, leaving the vendor and students in shock. Eyewitnesses estimated the total loss at over ₦100,000, including the cash gifts and decorative materials.
One of the witnesses said the suspect drove a car with an uncommon colour, described variously as blue, golden, or brown. Some who were present claimed they could recognize the vehicle if seen again, while others insisted that the act seemed coordinated, suggesting that the thief might have been familiar with campus routines.
Chaos and Outrage Among Students
The incidents have since sparked outrage among students, many of whom are now demanding that the university take swift action to address growing concerns over security lapses within the campus.
Several final-year students described the day as one that started with excitement but ended in confusion. Many said they were disappointed that such acts of theft could take place on a day meant for joy and celebration.
A visibly shaken student who witnessed the second incident said:
“Everyone was celebrating, taking pictures, and having fun when the man suddenly grabbed the bouquet. Before anyone could react, he jumped into a car and drove off. Then some boys just rushed in and carried the rest. It was like a movie.”
Another witness added:
“The vendor was crying because all her money and effort were gone. It was painful to watch.”
Students React as Emotions Run High
Both incidents have sparked intense conversations within the FUTMINNA community. Students are expressing growing concerns about safety, trust, and the wellbeing of fellow students who hustle to make ends meet.
A number of students have also called for greater vigilance and cooperation among themselves, especially those engaging in business transactions or deliveries within and outside the campus. “We can’t keep losing things like this. Today it’s someone’s goods, tomorrow it could be worse,” one student said.
Emotional Aftermath
For many who experienced the incidents firsthand, the emotional toll has been heavy. The victims — one losing a phone tied to his personal business and another losing cash and materials worth over ₦100,000 — expressed heartbreak and disappointment.
“Sign-out day is supposed to be a day of joy, not tears,” one student lamented. “Imagine going through years of struggle, finally making it to the finish line, only to be robbed of your happiness.”
The situation has left many final-year students anxious, with some now questioning the level of safety on campus and urging authorities to act before more serious incidents occur.
Conclusion: FUTMINNA Community Awaits Further Developments
These two heartbreaking events have cast a shadow over what should have been a joyful week on campus. While many are still trying to process the shock, others are demanding more awareness, protection, and empathy within the student community.
As emotions continue to run high, one thing remains clear — FUTMINNA is hurting, and its students are calling for accountability, safety, and compassion.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as more details unfold about both incidents.
Lessons and Preventive Measures
The recent events at FUTMINNA have served as a wake-up call for both students and campus authorities. As celebrations continue across various faculties, it is now clear that tighter security and better organization are urgently needed.
Experts have advised students and event organizers to:
- Avoid displaying large sums of money or expensive gifts in open spaces.
- Always ensure valuables are kept under supervision.
- Work closely with campus security during sign-out or large gatherings.
- Report suspicious movements or unfamiliar faces immediately.
