Tragedy struck on Saturday, May 3, 2025, as four seminarians from the Enugu Catholic Church lost their lives in a fatal motor accident while returning from a tour of the Obudu Ranch Resort in Cross River State.
The accident occurred at Ikwette village, located at the Bottom Hill of the Obudu Ranch Resort in Obanliku Local Government Area. According to eyewitnesses, the vehicle conveying the seminarians suffered a brake failure and plunged into one of the deep valleys in the area. The crash reportedly claimed the lives of four seminarians on the spot.
The vehicle, which carried a total of thirteen occupants, including a Reverend Father who led the delegation, was returning from a completed tour of the resort when the unfortunate incident happened. Nine other individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving medical attention at a hospital in Obudu.
In a condolence message, the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, expressed deep sorrow over the loss. The statement, issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill, described the incident as devastating and offered condolences to the families and friends of the deceased.
“It is with deep sorrow that we acknowledge the tragic accident that occurred at Ikwette community by Obudu Ranch Resort Bottom Hill on Saturday, May 3, 2025. 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.
Governor Otu also commended the swift response of emergency personnel at the Ranch, including the Nigerian Army, who were among the first responders at the scene. He assured that the state government would reach out to the affected families and provide necessary support.
He further stated that the government will review and enhance safety protocols at the resort to ensure the well-being of all visitors, urging travelers to maintain the roadworthiness of their vehicles and strictly adhere to safety guidelines.
As the affected families mourn their tragic loss, the broader Christian community and residents of Enugu and Cross River states continue to express shock and grief over the heartbreaking event.
