“They consumed substances…,” UNN opens up on death of four students

By Hilary Akalugwu

The management of the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) has confirmed the death of four of its students allegedly after consuming substances suspected to be alcohol and drugs at an off-campus house party in Nsukka.

The University added that six students who were also at the party are currently at various stages of recuperation in a hospital.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof Simon Ortuanya disclosed this while briefing journalists on the incident in Nsukka on Thursday.

He also announced that the university has declared a three-day mourning over the tragic death of four students

According to Ortuanya, the unfortunate incident occurred on Nov 11 during a house party organised at the off campus of the university.

According to him, 10 students of the university were involved in the incident.

“They organised the party to celebrate one of their friends who concluded his final year examination.

“Unfortunately, four of them died after consuming substances suspected to be alcohol and drugs while the remaining six are currently at various stages of recuperation in the hospital.

“The university hereby declares a three-day mourning for the deceased students.

“Within these three days, all social and academic activities will be suspended in the university,” the VC said.

Ortuanya also suspended a town hall meeting earlier scheduled between the University Community and the Governor of Enugu State, describing the tragic loss of the students as a death too many”.

Ortuanya extended the university heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased students.

“UNN share in their grief at this difficult moment and pray for the repose of the souls of the departed,” he said.

The VC clarified that the students involved in the incident cut across different departments as against the widely-speculated reports that they were only from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Ortuanya reiterated UNN earlier ban on all forms of sign-out celebrations in the university, urging students to desist from indulging in activities that would endanger their lives.

“The university is cooperating with security agencies to unravel the actual cause of death of the four students,” the VC added (NAN) www.nannews.ng

HOA/MNA