No fewer than four persons have been confirmed dead and nine others injured in an accident that occurred on Saturday at Ikwette community by Obudu Ranch Resort Bottom Hill in Cross River State.
The accident which involved a vehicle carrying 13 passengers, is alleged to have been caused by a brake failure.
A statement signed by Nsa Gill, the chief press secretary to the governor of Cross River State, said the accident victims are seminarians who came in a bus belonging to the Catholic Diocese of Enugu.
Gill also noted that information on the details of the victims is currently being collated.
“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 Catholic Diocese Enugu.
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“They were led on a tour by a Reverend Father. They had finished their tour of the ranch and encountered the unfortunate incident at the bottom hill community, outside the ranch premises,” he stated.
The Chief Press Secretary also explained that emergency services at the Ranch Resort, including personnel of the Nigerian Army responded promptly and commended them for their swift action in providing assistance to the accident victims.
Gill further stated that the state government is making necessary contacts to reach at the various families and provide any needed assistance.
The Governor’s media aide assured that the State Government would continue to provide updates as more information is made available.
“In the meantime, we ask for respect for the privacy of the victims’ families as they navigate this painful time,” he appealed.
He expressed the State Government’s heartfelt condolences to all those affected by the tragedy, stressing that, “our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Chief Press Secretary advised all visitors to the Obudu Ranch Resort to prioritize safety, including the roadworthiness of their vehicles as well as adhere strictly to all guidelines while coming to the beautiful attractions, and leaving the confines of the Resort.
“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,” he said.
