The University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), has suspended academic and social activities for three days following the deaths of four students at a private gathering in Nsukka, Enugu State.
The incident, which also left six other students hospitalised, occurred on November 11, 2026, during a party organised to celebrate a student who had recently completed his final-year examinations.
Vice-Chancellor of the university, Professor Simon Ortuanya, announced the mourning period on Thursday while briefing journalists, describing the incident as a major tragedy for the institution.
He explained that 10 students attended the gathering, but four reportedly died after consuming substances suspected to include alcohol and drugs. The remaining six were taken to various hospitals for medical attention.
As part of the university’s response, management declared three days of mourning in memory of the deceased, directing that all academic and social engagements be put on hold throughout the period.
“Within these three days, all social and academic activities will be suspended in the university,” Ortuanya stated.
The vice-chancellor also confirmed the postponement of a town hall meeting that was expected to bring university officials, staff and students together with the Enugu State Governor.
Amid public speculation about the victims, Ortuanya clarified that the students came from different departments, dismissing claims that all four belonged to the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
He expressed the university’s sympathy to the families and associates of the deceased, describing the incident as “a death too many”.
“The management, staff and students of the University of Nigeria share in their grief at this difficult moment and pray for the repose of the souls of the departed,” he said.
