IMSU Car Race Turns Deadly

By Destiny Obinna

One person has reportedly died while another sustained serious injuries following an accident during a car racing and drifting activity at the front gate of Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri, at about 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 26, 2026.

The deceased, identified as Chibuike Friday, a 19-year-old male from Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, who sold phone accessories at the IMSU front gate, was rushed to the IMSU Medical Centre after the incident but did not survive.

Another victim, Bright Ukwuoma, popularly known as Brightofplay, was also involved in the accident and was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, where he survived but sustained serious injuries.

Dike Chibuike Michael, a 30-year-old male from Umuolowu, Ejemekuru, Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, was arrested by the Imo State Police Command in connection with the incident.

Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect was driving a Lexus ES 350 saloon car with registration number KWU 766 AE at excessive speed and was allegedly engaged in an unauthorised street racing activity at the IMSU front gate when he struck Chibuike Friday, who was attempting to cross the road.

The impact caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle, which subsequently struck Bright Ukwuoma, inflicting injuries on him.

The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, condemned the reckless act. He expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased, wished the injured victim a speedy recovery, and assured the public that justice would be served.

The Commissioner also warned motorists against excessive speeding, reckless driving, and other traffic violations. He urged all road users to obey traffic laws and reaffirmed the Command's commitment to protecting lives and property, enforcing the law, and ensuring the safety of all residents of Imo State.