A heartbreaking tragedy struck at the scenic Obudu Ranch Resort on Saturday, May 3, 2025, as four Catholic seminarians from Enugu lost their lives in a fatal bus accident at the Ikwete village Bottom Hill in Obanliku Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The seminarians, who were led by a Reverend Father, had just concluded a tour of the Ranch and were en route back home when the brakes of their vehicle reportedly failed, causing the bus to veer off the road and plunge into a deep valley in the Ikwete community.
While four seminarians died on the spot, nine others sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving treatment at a hospital in Obudu.
Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, expressed deep sorrow over the incident in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Nsa Gill. The Governor extended condolences to the bereaved families and assured them of the state government’s support.
“It is with profound sadness that we acknowledge the tragic accident that occurred near the Obudu Ranch Resort, resulting in the loss of four promising lives and injuries to several others,” the statement read.
Governor Otu also commended the swift response of emergency services and Nigerian Army personnel at the resort, noting that the government is reviewing current safety protocols to prevent future occurrences.
He further urged all visitors to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and to strictly adhere to all safety guidelines while traveling to and from the state’s tourist destinations.
Further updates, he added, will be communicated to the public as more information becomes available.
