Four students die after final exam party in Nigeria

Four students die at party

Four final-year students at University of Nigeria Nsukka died after attending a sign-out party in Nsukka to celebrate the end of their exams.

Police suspect alcoholic drinks

Police spokesman Daniel Ndukwe said the two men and two women had reportedly fallen ill after consuming alcoholic drinks at the party. The cause of death has not been confirmed.

University declares mourning period

University of Nigeria Nsukka declared three days of mourning, during which academic and social activities will be suspended. Vice-Chancellor Professor Simon Ortuanya described the deaths as tragic and painful.

“tragic and painful”

Ban on sign-out celebrations

The university banned signing-out celebrations, which final-year students commonly hold to mark completion of studies. Ortuanya urged students to use graduation to reflect on their experience and prepare for life beyond campus.

Wider crisis with unsafe alcohol

The deaths come amid concerns about unsafe alcoholic drinks across Nigeria. In September, more than eleven people died in Ondo State after consuming locally made drinks contaminated with methanol, a highly toxic alcohol.