The African Democratic Congress (ADC) senatorial candidate for Enugu North, Dr Charles Ugwuanyi, has called on the police to carry out a comprehensive forensic investigation into the deaths of four students of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).
Ugwuanyi made the appeal in a statement on Saturday, expressing concern over the incident at an off-campus gathering in Nsukka.
The former Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Federal Capital Territory chapter, and Chief Executive Officer of Wellington Hospital, Abuja, commiserated with the bereaved families, the university’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, the university community and the Enugu State Government.
He called for a transparent investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths and prevent similar incidents in the future.
Ugwuanyi also urged the university management to improve student safety measures, particularly for those residing outside the campus.
Expressing concern over six other students who were hospitalised following the incident, he appealed to the relevant authorities to ensure they received adequate medical attention and psychological support.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and asked God to grant their families the strength to cope with their loss.
The incident reportedly took place at an off-campus lodge in the Hilltop area of Nsukka, where 10 students had gathered to celebrate a friend who had completed his final-year examinations.
In response, the university announced three days of mourning and suspended academic and social activities.
Meanwhile, the police have commenced an investigation, while the bodies of the four deceased students have been deposited in a mortuary for autopsy.
The cause of the incident has yet to be officially determined.
