The Catholic Diocese of Enugu on Saturday lost four seminarians to a road crash that occurred in the Ikwette Community by Obudu Ranch Bottom Hill in Obudu Local Government Area of Cross River State
The crash involved a vehicle belonging to the diocese conveying 13 passengers with preliminary reports suggesting that the bus suffered brake failure.
Emergency services at the Ranch Resort, including personnel of the Nigerian Army, were said to have responded promptly and took nine of the injured victims to the hospital.
The Cross River State Government confirmed the crash and commiserated with families of the victims.
The government, in a statement made available by Governor Bassey Otu’s Chief Press Secretary, Gill Nsa, said, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.”
According to the government, information on the full identity of the victims is still being gathered, but they are known to be seminarians who came in a bus belonging to the Enugu Catholic Diocese, who were led on a tour by a Reverend Father.
The victims were said to have finished their tour of the ranch and encountered the unfortunate incident at the bottom hill community, outside the ranch premises.
The statement added that the government was making necessary contacts to reach the victims’ families and provide any needed assistance.
The government noted, “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. We urge all visitors to prioritise 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.
“We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, we ask for respect for the privacy of the victims’ families as they navigate this painful time. Once again, our heartfelt condolences go out to all those affected by this tragedy.”
