The university also dismissed reports that seven students died in the incident, clarifying that four fatalities had been confirmed, while six other students were receiving medical treatment at different hospitals.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Simon Ortuanya, disclosed this while addressing journalists on the incident, which occurred on Wednesday, November 11, 2026.
According to him, 10 students attended a gathering organised to celebrate one of their colleagues who had completed his final-year examinations.
He explained that the students reportedly consumed substances suspected to be alcohol and drugs, after which four of them died. The six survivors were subsequently taken to different hospitals, where they are receiving treatment.
Describing the tragedy as “a death too many”, Ortuanya announced a three-day mourning period during which all academic and social activities in the university would be suspended.
“Within these three days, all social and academic activities will be suspended in the university,” he said.
The Vice-Chancellor also announced the postponement of a town hall meeting earlier scheduled between the university community and the Enugu State Governor, expressing appreciation to the governor for his understanding.
He extended the university’s condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased students, assuring them that the institution shared in their grief.
Ortuanya also clarified that the students involved in the incident were from different departments, dismissing reports suggesting that all of them belonged to the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences.
Reiterating the university’s ban on sign-out celebrations, he warned students against engaging in activities that could put their lives at risk.
He stressed that completing university examinations should be an occasion for sober reflection and responsible celebration rather than reckless conduct that could lead to avoidable tragedies.
The Vice-Chancellor further disclosed that the university was working with relevant security agencies to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The investigation is expected to determine the substances consumed by the students and the events that led to the deaths.
