UNN confirms death of four students during house party

The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has confirmed that four of its students died and six other people were hospitalised after a party at an off-campus lodge in Nsukka, Enugu State.

Vice-Chancellor Simon Ortuanya told reporters on Thursday, November 12, that some of those receiving treatment remained in critical condition. He declared three days of mourning and suspended lectures, social activities and ceremonies during the period.

Ortuanya said university management received a distress call at about 10 p.m. on Wednesday involving current and former students. University security personnel responded and found that a party had taken place at Praise Lord Lodge in the Hilltop community, near the Nsukka campus.

“It was discovered that four patients died immediately. Six other patients are presently in hospital as they were rushed to hospitals, and they are receiving treatment at the moment,” he said.

Ortuanya said the university was working with security agencies and other authorities to establish the cause of the deaths.

“The preliminary investigation and interim report point to alleged alcohol abuse or drug paraphernalia and things like that. But we are not conclusive on those matters,” he said.

The vice-chancellor did not identify the students who died or disclose their departments. Reports described the party as a graduation sign-off event. Ortuanya said the university had banned sign-off ceremonies on all its campuses.

“It is indeed tragic and painful. We mourn with the families, the parents who have suffered these years to train these young men and women in their studies,” he said.

The university also postponed a town hall meeting with Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah that had been scheduled for Friday. Ortuanya said a new date would be announced and urged the university community to remain calm and avoid speculation while the investigation continues.