KEY POINTS

• Four seminarians died and nine others were injured when their bus crashed at Obudu Ranch Resort, with brake failure cited as a preliminary cause.

• Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu vowed to review safety protocols at the resort, including stricter vehicle inspections and slope management.

• The tragedy highlights recurring road safety challenges in mountainous tourist areas, prompting calls for systemic reforms to prevent future accidents.

A tour to the scenic Obudu Ranch Resort turned tragic on Sunday when a vehicle carrying 13 seminarians from the Enugu Catholic Diocese crashed at the resort’s bottom hill in Ikwette community, leaving four dead and nine injured.

The incident has sparked urgent calls for improved road safety protocols at tourist sites across Cross River State.

According to a statement by Nsa Gill, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Bassey Otu, the victims were part of a group led by a Reverend Father exploring the resort. “They had finished their tour and encountered the unfortunate incident outside the ranch premises,” Gill said.

Preliminary investigations suggest brake failure as a possible cause, though a full inquiry is underway.

Investigation points to brake failure as Governor pledges safety overhaul

The accident has cast a shadow over the Obudu Ranch Resort, a popular destination known for its mountain views and cable car rides. Governor Otu expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.”

He emphasized the state’s commitment to safety, pledging a review of existing measures at the resort and stricter enforcement of vehicle roadworthiness checks for visitors.

The seminarians, enrolled in a theology program in Enugu, were returning from a recreational visit when their bus lost control on the steep descent.

Local witnesses reported hearing screeching tires before the vehicle veered off the road. Emergency responders rushed the injured to nearby hospitals, where two remain in critical condition.

Channelstv reports that Cross River State recorded over 120 fatal road accidents in 2024, with mountainous terrains like Obudu accounting for 30% of cases.

Safety advocates have long criticized the lack of mandatory brake checks for vehicles accessing the resort’s hills. “This tragedy was preventable,” said Emeka Nwankwo, a road safety consultant. “Regular maintenance and slope warning systems could save lives.”

The Enugu Catholic Diocese has announced plans to hold a memorial service for the deceased seminarians, described as “dedicated young men committed to serving their communities.” Meanwhile, the state government has temporarily suspended tourist access to the accident site pending safety upgrades