– The Nnamdi Azikiwe University community is in mourning after Ifunanya Miracle, a recent graduate from the Department of Quantity Surveying, lost her life in a tragic incident involving a prank that went terribly wrong.
On the evening of June 9, 2024, Ifunanya, also known as Bliss, and her friend Peace, a student in the Department of Pure and Industrial Chemistry, were returning home in a tricycle when they were approached by a fellow passenger.
The man allegedly demanded their phones, leading them to believe they were being robbed.
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In a desperate attempt to escape, both Ifunanya and Peace jumped out of the moving tricycle.
Tragically, Ifunanya hit her head on the ground and succumbed to her injuries shortly after being taken to Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital. Peace survived but sustained significant injuries and remains hospitalized.
Witness account
A student witness, who chose to remain anonymous, recounted the events: “Miracle had just closed her Point-of-Sale business for the day and was heading home.
“We heard that during the ride, a passenger threatened them, causing them to jump out of the vehicle. Unfortunately, Miracle hit her head and did not survive.”
The supposed assailant later turned himself in to the police, claiming that the robbery attempt was merely a prank. This revelation has sparked outrage among students and staff, questioning the intentions behind such a dangerous act.
University Spokesman confirmed incident
Dr. Emmanuel Ojukwu, the university spokesperson, confirmed the incident and stated that the prankster, a final-year student, would face disciplinary actions following Ifunanya’s burial.
“This was not a robbery but an expensive prank that ended in tragedy. The university deeply regrets the incident, and disciplinary measures will be taken against the student responsible,” he said.
University management meets parents of deceased
The university management has met with the families of both the victims and the prankster to discuss the next steps.
The prankster’s family has agreed to cover the funeral costs for Ifunanya and the medical expenses for peace.
