Four people have been confirmed dead following a gathering at an off-campus lodge in the Hilltop area of Nsukka, near the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
The incident has sparked widespread reactions, particularly after graphic videos circulated on social media.
Contrary to initial reports suggesting that seven Pharmacy students were among the deceased, the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigerian Students, University of Nigeria, Nsukka Chapter, has refuted these claims.
In an official statement signed by its President, Onah Olisaemeka, and Secretary-General, Obasi Chibuike V., the association stated, “There is no confirmed report of any pharmacy student being among the victims of the incident.”
Olisaemeka, the association president, explained that he personally visited Faith Foundation Hospital, where the bodies of four victims—two males and two females—were deposited. “I also personally viewed the deceased and can confirm that I did not recognise any of them as a pharmacy student,” he said.
The association further revealed that two individuals hospitalised after the incident are known UNN social media personalities, popularly referred to as Rymez and Golden, who are recognised for their street vlogs and dance content.
“We understand the concern and anxiety this situation has caused, especially among pharmacy students, their families, and the wider university community,” the statement added.
We urge everyone to exercise restraint, refrain from spreading unverified information, and rely only on credible updates.”
A UNN student, who spoke to our correspondent on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the incident took place in Nsukka but noted that the identities and student status of the victims remain unverified. “It is true it happened.
Some persons are still conscious and are in the hospital,” the student said, adding that the incident occurred outside the university campus and that it was unclear whether any of those involved were UNN students.
The case gained further attention on Thursday after videos showing several people lying motionless inside a room at the lodge went viral, with early reports linking the tragedy to a Pharmacy students’ sign-out celebration. However, the identities of the deceased and the exact cause of the incident remain uncertain.
Attempts to reach the Enugu State Police Command for confirmation and further details were unsuccessful as the command had not responded to enquiries at the time of filing this report.
