TRAGEDY IN CROSS RIVER AS SEVEN CATHOLIC REVEREND BROTHERS DI£ IN OBUDU ROAD CRASH
A somber mood hangs over the Catholic community following a fatal road accident that claimed the lives of seven Catholic reverend brothers on Saturday in Cross River State, South-South Nigeria.
The victims, members of the Order of Friars Minor Capuchin, were returning from a visit to the popular Obudu Ranch Resort when their vehicle was involved in a deadly crash at the Ikwette community, near the resort’s Bottom Hill.
The deceased brothers, who belonged to the Enugu branch of the religious order, had travelled from the South-East to Obudu for a tour before the tragic incident. They have been identified as Somadina Ibe-Ojuludu, Chinedu Nwachukwu, Marcel Ezenwafor, Gerald Nwogueze, Kingsley Nwosu, Wilfred Aleke, and Chukwudi Obueze.
Reverend Brother John-Kennedy Anyanwu, an official of the order, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Sunday. He revealed that 13 friars were involved in the crash, with seven confirmed dead and six others sustaining varying degrees of injuries.
“The injured brothers have been transferred to Enugu for proper medical attention,” he stated. “We entrust their souls to the merciful love of God and invite all to join us in praying for their happy repose.”
In reaction to the tragedy, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State expressed deep sorrow over the loss. In a statement by his spokesperson, Nsa Gill, the governor extended condolences to the families of the victims and assured that the state government is working to provide support.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time,” the statement read. Governor Otu also urged travelers to prioritise safety and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy when visiting the state’s tourist destinations.
The Capuchin order, known for its missionary and charitable works, has been left reeling from the loss, as condolences continue to pour in from across the country.
