The Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Igwe Samuel Ikechukwu Asadu (Igwe Ogadagidi), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of four students of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), describing the tragic incident as a painful loss to the university community, the bereaved families and society at large.
In a condolence message in Enugu on Thursday, the monarch sympathised with the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, the management, staff and students of the university over the unfortunate incident.
He also extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, praying God to grant them the strength and fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Asadu, who is the immediate past Chairman of the Southeast Traditional Rulers Council, and the traditional ruler of Edem-Ani Ogwugwu Ancient Kingdom in Nsukka LGA, described the deceased students as young and vibrant Nigerians whose lives held great promise, noting that their untimely deaths had robbed their families and the nation of a potentially bright future.
He urged students of the university and other tertiary institutions to remain focused on the primary purpose of their admission, which he said is to acquire knowledge, develop their talents and prepare themselves for meaningful contributions to society.
According to him, while social interactions and recreational activities are part of campus life, students must exercise caution, make responsible choices and avoid activities that could jeopardise their lives and academic pursuits.
"University education is a critical phase of life that demands discipline, commitment and a strong sense of responsibility. Students must not lose sight of the purpose for which their parents and guardians made enormous sacrifices to send them to school.
"It is important for students of higher institutions to understand that the rigorous rules and regulations governing campus life are carefully designed to mould their character, instil discipline and prepare them for moral uprightness and academic excellence.
Any deviation from these established rules and regulations could have serious consequences, often resulting in regret, avoidable risks and the jeopardising of students' lives and future." he said.
Igwe Asadu further called on university authorities, parents and other stakeholders to intensify efforts towards promoting students' safety, responsible conduct and a secure learning environment.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the deceased students and urged the university community to remain united in this difficult moment.
It would be recalled that the UNN management had on Thursday confirmed that four of its students died during an off-campus sign-out party, while six others were hospitalised following the tragic incident.
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