Explosion: UNICAL Evacuates Staff, Students from Library

The University of Calabar (UNICAL) has issued an urgent directive for the immediate and complete evacuation of both staff and students from the main library in response to yesterday’s (July 4) explosion that occurred on the premises.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Florence Obi, conveyed this information through a memorandum released by the University Registrar, Mr Gabriel Egbe, on Thursday (July 5).

The memorandum was also sent to the Deputy Vice-Chancellors (Academic and Administration), Bursar, Librarian, Information Officer, and Acting Chief Security Officer. It instructed the Chief Security Officer to promptly seal off the building and ensure the safeguarding of all assets within to prevent any further damage.

According to the memorandum, “Following the report of an explosive sound that emanated from the University of Calabar Main Library building on July 4, resulting in a crack in the structure, the Vice-Chancellor has directed the immediate and comprehensive evacuation of the building.”

“Therefore, all staff and students are hereby instructed to refrain from entering the University Library building henceforth.”

“The Chief Security Officer, Cpt. Augustine Bisong ( rtd) and the University Librarian, Professor Aniebiet Inyang Ntui are responsible for ensuring the complete evacuation of staff, students, and all University properties from the building without delay. The Chief Security Officer shall seal off the premises and guarantee the security of any remaining University assets,” stated the memorandum.

It is worth noting that fear spread throughout the university on Wednesday after an explosive sound was heard from the main library, which has already faced scrutiny regarding its structural stability for the upcoming session after years of neglect and lack of maintenance.