A lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Dr. Fabian Osita, was tragically shot and killed by members of a car-snatching syndicate on Monday night in Awka, Anambra State.

The incident occurred near the high-tension area in Aroma as Dr. Osita was driving home from work. Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants blocked his Toyota Corolla and shot him in the head when he resisted their attempt to steal the vehicle. The gunmen fled with his car, leaving his lifeless body at the scene.

Confirming the incident, the university’s Chief Security Officer, Ken Chukwurah, stated, “He was shot dead at about 7:30 pm during a car-snatching attempt. The university community is in deep mourning over this loss.”

The Anambra State Police Command also verified the killing, adding that an investigation has been launched to track down the perpetrators. Police spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga disclosed that the stolen car, a 2006 ash-colored Toyota Corolla with Enugu registration plates, remains missing.

The police extended condolences to Dr. Osita’s family, colleagues, and the UNIZIK community, urging anyone with relevant information to assist in the ongoing investigation.

Meanwhile, the university’s Academic Staff Union is planning a protest to highlight the alarming rise in insecurity in the state capital, especially during the Yuletide season.

Residents have been advised to prioritize personal safety and comply with armed criminals to avoid such tragic outcomes.