The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) has suspended academic and social activities for three days following the death of four students at an off-campus party in Nsukka.
The Vice-Chancellor, Simon Ortuanya, announced the decision while addressing journalists on Thursday, saying the incident occurred on November 11 at a house party organised by 10 students to celebrate one of their colleagues who had completed his final-year examinations.
Mr Ortuanya explained that four of the students died after allegedly consuming substances suspected to be alcohol and drugs, while the six others were receiving medical attention in hospital.
He described the incident as a painful loss to the university community and announced three days of mourning in honour of the deceased students.
The vice-chancellor also cancelled a town hall meeting earlier scheduled between the university community and the Enugu State governor over the tragedy.
He extended the university’s condolences to the bereaved families, friends and colleagues of the deceased, praying for the repose of their souls.
Mr Ortuanya further clarified that the students involved came from different departments, dismissing reports suggesting that all the victims were from the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
He also restated the university’s prohibition of sign-out parties and other related celebrations on campus, warning students against activities that could put their lives at risk.
According to him, the university is working with security agencies to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.
(NAN)
