UNICAL Students Raise Urgent Concerns Over Risks of Collapse in Their Campus Hostels

Students fear for safety as worsening cracks and ongoing rains heighten risks in University of Calabar hostels

Students of the University of Calabar (UNICAL) have voiced UNICAL hostel safety concerns, fearing that the deteriorating conditions of their accommodations may pose a serious risk. Many residents, especially those in the male and female hostels, have noticed worsening cracks in the walls, which they worry could lead to structural failure as heavy rains continue in the Calabar area.

During a recent episode of “What I Will Do If I Had Power to Run UNICAL,” a phone-in program on Unical International Radio, students shared their fears, particularly about Halls 8 and 9. They expressed frustration over the longstanding neglect of these hostels, pointing out that the infrastructure has remained unsafe and largely unaddressed for years.

A student, identified as Jane from Malabor Republic, stressed, “If I had the power to make changes, the first priority would be extensive renovation of these hostels. Major cracks in Halls 1, 2, 4, 8, and 9 could cause these walls to collapse, especially with the daily downpours here in Calabar.” She appealed to the university to act swiftly, saying, “We cannot wait for a tragedy before action is taken. The administration must take these UNICAL hostel safety concerns seriously.”

A male resident added that the absence of reliable electricity has not only impacted daily living conditions but has also made the hostels vulnerable to security risks. He emphasized the need for improvement in both infrastructure and utilities, urging the student welfare body and the Students’ Union Government to prioritize the well-being of residents.

Vice Chancellor Prof. Florence Bankong Obi previously acknowledged that the condition of the hostels was noted and scheduled for future action. However, students are calling for immediate, concrete steps to address the UNICAL hostel safety concerns before the situation worsens.