University Of Nigeria Confirms Four Students Dead In Off-Campus Party, Declares Mourning
12th November, 2026 | News
UNN Confirms Four Students Dead, Six Hospitalized After Off-Campus Party Tragedy
Nsukka, Nigeria — The management of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), Enugu State, has confirmed the tragic deaths of four of its students following an off-campus gathering. Six other students are currently receiving medical treatment at various hospitals.
In response to the incident, the university has declared three days of mourning, suspending all academic and social activities across the institution.
Details of the Incident
According to a statement released on Thursday by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, the tragedy occurred at an off-campus lodge in the Hilltop area of Nsukka. Ten students from various departments had gathered to celebrate a friend who had just finished his final-year examinations.
Preliminary reports indicate that four students—two males and two females—died after allegedly consuming suspected substances, while six others were rushed to medical facilities for urgent intervention.
Addressing the tragedy, Prof. Ortuanya described the event as devastating, stating:
“Within these three days, all social and academic activities will be suspended in the University.”
Clarification on Victims and PANS Response
Following rumors circulating on social media, the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students (PANS), UNN chapter, clarified that reports claiming all or multiple victims were Pharmacy students were false.
PANS President Onah Olisaemeka stated that he visited the Faith Foundation Hospital, where the bodies were deposited, and confirmed that none of the deceased were identified as members of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Management Reiteration on Sign-Out Bans
The UNN administration announced that it is actively collaborating with security agencies to determine the exact cause of death and circumstances surrounding the incident.
In light of the tragedy, the university has strongly reiterated its standing ban on wild “sign-out” celebrations and parties held to mark the completion of academic programs. Management advised students to treat graduation milestones as moments of reflection rather than engaging in risky activities that could jeopardize their safety.
Additionally, a planned town hall meeting between the university community and the Enugu State governor has been postponed indefinitely in honor of the deceased.