The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has expressed deep sorrow following a tragic road accident involving its students and a staff member, which claimed four lives and left several others injured.
In a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Onen Ebri Onen, the university disclosed that the accident involved 24 students and one staff member, many of whom were members of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) executive. They were returning from an official assignment in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, when the incident occurred in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The university confirmed that three students and one staff member lost their lives in the crash.
Those who died were identified as Comrade Solomon Uya, Director of Sports of the SUG; Comrade Lucky Erim of the Department of Chemistry, who also served as President of the Faculty of Physical Sciences Students’ Association and President of Presidents; Comrade Favour Darlington of the Department of Educational Management; and Mr Anthony Arikpo, the vehicle driver and a staff member of the institution.
According to the statement, survivors are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals, with the university assuring that adequate medical care is being provided.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof Francisca Bassey, accompanied by the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Prof Stella Maris-Okey, visited the injured students, expressing solidarity and personally monitoring their treatment.
The management noted that the Vice Chancellor remained with the victims until the early hours to ensure that all necessary medical attention was administered.
Prof Bassey conveyed her condolences to the families of the deceased and described the incident as a painful loss to the university community.
She also reassured the injured students and their families of the institution’s unwavering support, emphasising that their recovery and well-being remain a top priority.
The university further appealed for calm and assured parents and guardians that every effort is being made to provide the best possible care for the affected students.