By Aderogba George

Dr Charles Ugwuanyi, African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate for Enugu North Senatorial District, has urged the police to conduct a thorough forensic investigation into the deaths of four University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), students.

Ugwuanyi made the call in a statement on Saturday, following the incident at an off-campus gathering in Nsukka.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ugwuanyi is the immediate past Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), FCT Chapter, and Chief Executive Officer of Wellington Hospital, Abuja.

He sympathised with the bereaved families, the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, the university community and the Enugu State Government.

He urged the police to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident through a transparent forensic investigation to prevent a recurrence.

The ADC candidate also urged the university management to strengthen measures to protect students, particularly those living off campus.

He expressed concern over six other students hospitalised after the incident and called on the relevant authorities to provide them with adequate medical and psychological care.

Ugwuanyi prayed for the peaceful repose of the deceased and strength for their families to bear the loss.

The incident reportedly occurred at an off-campus lodge in the Hilltop area of Nsukka, where 10 students had gathered to celebrate a friend who completed his final-year examinations.

Following the incident, the university declared three days of mourning and suspended academic and social activities.

The police have commenced investigations, while the bodies of the deceased were deposited in a mortuary for autopsy.

The cause of the incident has yet to be officially established. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade