The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has confirmed the death of four students following a tragic incident at an off-campus gathering in Nsukka, Enugu State.

The incident, which occurred at a lodge in the Hilltop area of Nsukka, has sparked widespread concern among students, parents and members of the university community.

The university’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Simon Ortuanya, confirmed the deaths on Thursday, November 12, 2026, while addressing journalists about the incident.

According to the Vice-Chancellor, 10 students were involved in the gathering, which was reportedly organised to celebrate a friend who had completed final-year examinations.

Unfortunately, four of the participants lost their lives, while the remaining six were rushed to different hospitals, where they are currently receiving medical attention.

University Declares Three Days of Mourning

Following the tragic development, the management of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, declared three days of mourning in honour of the deceased students.

The Vice-Chancellor announced that all academic and social activities within the university would be suspended throughout the mourning period.

Describing the incident as a deeply painful loss, Ortuanya expressed condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased.

The university management also appealed to members of the campus community to remain calm as investigations continue.

The institution further suspended a planned town hall meeting between the university community and the Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah.

Police Begin Investigation Into Students’ Deaths

The Enugu State Police Command has commenced an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the deaths.

According to the police, the incident occurred on November 11, 2026, at an off-campus lodge in the Hilltop community.

Police spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed that preliminary information indicated that the victims reportedly became ill after allegedly consuming alcoholic beverages during the gathering.

The police confirmed that four people, comprising two males and two females, were found dead, while six others were taken to hospitals for treatment.

The police also disclosed that alcoholic beverages were recovered from the scene, while the remains of the deceased were deposited in a mortuary for autopsy.

The command stated that investigations were ongoing to determine the actual circumstances and cause of the deaths.

UNN Warns Students Against Dangerous Celebrations

The university management has also reiterated its ban on sign-out celebrations and other activities capable of putting students’ lives at risk.

The Vice-Chancellor urged students to exercise caution and treat the completion of their academic programmes as a period of reflection rather than engaging in activities that could endanger their lives.

The university also clarified that the students involved came from different departments, contrary to earlier reports suggesting that all the victims were members of the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

The clarification is important as unverified reports about the identities and academic affiliations of the deceased had circulated on social media following the incident.

Investigation Continues

The tragic incident has raised fresh concerns about student safety, substance use and the need for greater awareness of the dangers associated with excessive alcohol consumption and potentially harmful substances.

While the university and police have provided initial accounts of what happened, the definitive cause of death has not yet been established through the ongoing investigation and autopsies.

The development has left the university community mourning as families and friends await further information.

Utelnova will continue to monitor the investigation and provide updates as more verified information becomes available.