A tragic incident occurred on Monday, August 18, when Cynthia, a first-year diploma student of Computer Science at Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), was fatally struck by a speeding bus belonging to the Akwa Ibom State Transport Corporation (AKTC) right in front of the university’s main gate.
Eyewitnesses reported that the student died instantly at the scene of the accident. In response, outraged students set the bus ablaze, expressing their frustration and grief over the loss of their colleague.
Sources say students attempted to attack the driver of the bus upon learning of Cynthia’s death. According to them, AKTC drivers had received repeated warnings to reduce speed when approaching the university gate located along the narrow and busy Umuahia–Ikot Ekpene–Uyo–Calabar road. The alleged disregard for these warnings further fueled the students’ anger.
The situation was brought under control following the prompt intervention of the university’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Hillary Edeoga, who appealed to the students not to take the law into their own hands.
Cynthia’s remains have been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Umuahia.
The university’s Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Onyinye Ralph-Nwachukwu, confirmed the incident and expressed deep sorrow over the unfortunate loss of life. Normalcy has since returned to the campus, and the burnt vehicle has been cleared from the scene.
Students have continued to voice their concerns over the reckless driving habits of AKTC drivers. A student who spoke to reporters said:
“Drivers from this company are known for their reckless speed. It’s as though they have no regard for human lives. Despite the dangerous state of the road, they drive without caution — and this isn’t the first complaint. This time, a promising young life has been lost.”
Our thoughts and prayers go out to Cynthia’s family and loved ones. May her soul rest in peace.