Two students of Cross River State University were killed when six of them were involved in an auto crash while travelling to their homes following a two-week closure of the institution on Monday.
PUNCH Metro gathered that the students who boarded the same bus were on their way to Ogoja in the northern part of the state, when the accident occurred near Ikom, along the Calabar–Ikom highway.
The school closure was reportedly to stop students from taking part in the hardship protest slated for August 1.
In a telephone conversation with a student who pleaded anonymity on Tuesday, our correspondent learnt that the two students who lost their lives were from the Departments of Guidance and Counselling, and Biochemistry but their identities had not been disclosed.
“Yesterday, some of the students just finished writing their exams and were heading to their hometown in Ogoja here in Cross River State.
“At Ikom, their vehicle had an accident. About six of them were involved. They were taken to the hospital yesterday and were given treatment.
“Two of the girls were brought in unconscious and were given treatment. Then, this morning, one of them died. Also, one of the boys involved in the accident who was unconscious and undergoing treatment yesterday, gave up the ghost this morning.
“Only two students died. Two are currently undergoing treatment while the other two escaped with slight injuries,” the source said.
Our correspondent learnt that in a circular released by the management of the university, they decided to give the students a two-week break starting from Tuesday due to the planned nationwide protest being organised by some groups across the country from August 1.
“Given the planned nationwide protest being organised by some Civil Society Organisations and others in the country effective August 1, 2024, and in order to ensure the safety of the lives of our students, the management of the university has decided to give a break of two weeks to the students with effect from Tuesday, July 30, 2024.
“Consequently, all lectures, examinations, tests and other academic activities will be suspended from that date.
“Students are advised to vacate their halls of residence immediately after this break takes effect. Normal academic activities will resume on Monday, August 12, 2024.
