Four seminarians have died and nine others were injured in a road accident near Obudu Ranch Resort in Cross River State.
The tragic incident happened on Saturday at the Ikwette community, close to the bottom hill of the popular resort. A statement from the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Otu, Nsa Gill, confirmed the accident.
According to the statement, a bus carrying 13 seminarians lost control and crashed. Early findings suggest that the accident was caused by brake failure.
“The unfortunate incident resulted in the loss of four lives and injuries to nine others. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read.
The victims were Catholic seminarians from the Enugu Diocese. They had just finished a tour of the Obudu Ranch and were leaving when the accident happened.
“They were led on a tour by a Reverend Father. They had finished their tour of the ranch and encountered the unfortunate incident at the bottom hill community, outside the ranch premises,” Gill said.
The Cross River State Government expressed deep sorrow over the loss and promised to review safety measures at the resort.
“Safety is our utmost priority in the Ranch Resort and beyond, and we will be reviewing the safety measures in place at the Ranch Resort for every visitor,” the government added.
“We urge all visitors to prioritize safety, including the roadworthiness of their vehicles, and to adhere to all guidelines while coming to our beautiful attractions and leaving the confines of the Resort.”
The state government also extended condolences to the affected families, promising that efforts would be made to avoid such incidents in the future.
