C’River Governor Mourns UNICROSS Students, Staffer Killed in Highway Crash

Governor Bassey Otu of Cross Rivers State has conveyed profound grief following a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of students and a staff member from the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS). The devastating incident, which occurred along the Calabar–Itu Highway, has cast a pall of mourning over the state.

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I received with a deeply broken heart the devastating news of the tragic road accident involving students and a staff member of the University of Cross River State. This painful incident has cast a heavy shadow over our dear state and brought immense sorrow to us all.

In a heartfelt statement, Governor Otu described the loss as a "heavy shadow" over Cross River, emphasizing the tragic cutting short of promising young lives and the dedicated service of the staff member. He extended his deepest sympathies to the bereaved families, friends, classmates, and the entire UNICROSS community, assuring them of the state's solidarity during this painful period.

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In one heartbreaking moment, we have lost some of our brightest young minds, full of promise, hope, and potential, alongside a committed staff member whose service reflected dedication and sacrifice.

The accident involved a coaster bus carrying students returning from an official assignment in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Reports indicate the bus collided with a container truck in the Odukpani Local Government Area, resulting in the immediate deaths of at least three students and one staff member. The university confirmed that 24 students were on board the bus.

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As a father, I cannot begin to imagine the depth of pain the families are going through at this time. My heart goes out to the parents who must now bear this unimaginable loss, to friends and classmates left in grief, and to the entire UNICROSS community weighed down by this tragedy.

Governor Otu's administration has pledged to engage with relevant authorities to address the incident. He prayed for the eternal rest of the departed souls and for the swift recovery of those injured, underscoring that the pain of UNICROSS is the pain of every Cross Riverian. This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the dangers on our roads and the vulnerability of our youth.

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I pray that Almighty God grants eternal rest to the departed and comforts every grieving heart. In this moment of sorrow, I also extend my thoughts and prayers to those currently receiving treatment, trusting God for their speedy and full recovery.