University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) held a solemn assembly at its Calabar campus on Friday, May 8, 2026, to thank God for the preservation of lives and honour three students and a staff member who lost their lives in a tragic vehicle accident that occurred in Odukpani Local Government Area on Friday, May 1, 2026.
The assembly brought together members of the university management, staff, students, loved ones of the institution and well-wishers in an atmosphere of prayer, reflection, and gratitude for God’s mercies.
Held under the theme, “Oh Lord, Show UNICROSS Mercy,” the gathering was attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Francisca Bassey, members of the university management, religious leaders, staff, and students.
In her address, Prof. Bassey expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy while thanking God for preserving the lives of 21 survivors. She described the accident as painful and urged students and staff to remain grateful to God for His protection.
The Vice Chancellor stated that the university vehicle conveying the students had been properly serviced before the journey. She explained that the accident occurred after another vehicle reportedly veered into the path of the UNICROSS bus.
She commended Prof. Innocent Abang, Chairman of the Medical Advisory Council (CMAC) of University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), for his swift medical intervention and efforts in assisting the victims, noting that his actions helped save lives and prevent severe injuries.
Prof. Bassey also praised the Government of Cross River State and the Students’ Union Government (SUG) of UNICROSS for their rescue efforts and solidarity during the emergency response.
She further commended members of the university management team, including the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic), Professor Stella Maris Okey, and other principal staff members for working tirelessly throughout the period of the tragedy.
Calling on members of the university community to seek God, live responsibly, and pray against future tragedies, she said:
“Let’s ask God for mercy and be devoid of wickedness, envy, fighting, and destructive lifestyles. Let us look to God our Creator, who is the sustainer of our lives, the author and finisher of our faith. He holds our today and our tomorrow. Our destinies are in His hands.
“You cannot take from somebody what God has given to that person. Let us abandon destructive attitudes among ourselves. The Creator is watching,
“I want everyone to solemnly seize this opportunity to reconcile with their Creator and let all of us repent before the Lord — starting from the leadership, from the Vice Chancellor through the principal officers to the least staff — so that the wrath of the Lord may be turned away and God may show us mercy. It is time to repent.”
Special prayers were also offered for divine mercy, protection, peace, and continued progress for the university community.
A sermon titled “Vessels of Mercy, Carriers of His Glory” was delivered by Prof. Innocent Abang, who is also a pastor. The message focused on God’s mercy, repentance, and total dependence on God.
Other ministers, including Pastor Ayang Umoren of God Wonders Service, also offered prayers during the event.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the Students Union Government (SUG) President of UNICROSS, Comrade Ogar Favour — one of the survivors of the accident — expressed appreciation to God, the university management, and all individuals who contributed to the rescue and support efforts.
The solemn assembly marked the climax of activities held by UNICROSS after the university management declared this week as a period of mourning.
— UNICROSS Media Week
Comments
Post a Comment