UNICROSS Community, Alumni Mourn as Auto Crash Claims Lives of Students, Staff

 

 

The University of Cross River State community has been thrown into mourning following a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of three students and a staff member.

 

The incident occurred in Odukpani Local Government Area as a group of 24 students and one staff member were returning from an official assignment in Uyo. Many of the students involved were members of the Students’ Union Government (SUG) executive.

 

Those who lost their lives have been identified as Comrade Solomon Uya, the SUG Director of Sports; Comrade Lucky Erim of the Department of Chemistry, who also served as President of the Faculty of Physical Sciences Students’ Association; Comrade Favour Darlington of the Department of Educational Management; and Mr. Anthony Arikpo, a university staff member and the driver of the vehicle.

 

Survivors of the crash are currently receiving treatment at various hospitals, where they are said to be responding to medical care. The Vice Chancellor of the university, Francisca Bassey, alongside the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Stella Maris-Okey, visited the injured students and remained with them through the night into the early hours of the following day.

 

The Vice Chancellor expressed deep shock over the incident, extending condolences to the families of the deceased while assuring the injured students and their families of the institution’s full support. She emphasized that the university is committed to ensuring that victims receive the best possible care and recover fully.

 

In a separate statement, the UNICROSS Alumni Association also expressed profound grief over the loss. The association, led by its National President, Inyali Peter, described the incident as heartbreaking and extended condolences to the university management, families, and the wider academic community.

 

The alumni body noted that the tragedy has left the university community in shock and sorrow, while offering prayers for the 21 injured students still undergoing treatment. It also commended the efforts of medical personnel, emergency responders, and university officials who have been providing support to the victims.

 

Both the university management and alumni association called for strength and unity during this difficult time, praying for the repose of the deceased and the swift recovery of those injured.

 

The incident has cast a shadow over the institution, with many describing it as one of the most painful moments in the university’s recent history.