By Kelvin Ololo
The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has intensified security engagements ahead of the 2025/2026 second-semester examinations, following reports of a gang-related clash and alleged arrests of suspected members of rival groups around the Calabar campus.
The development comes as examinations for final-year students are scheduled to commence on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, amid concerns over activities capable of disrupting academic proceedings and campus safety.
The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, told CrossRiverWatch in an interview that the police did not arrest any gang suspects in connection with the reported incident, but only conducted patrols around the university and its environs.
This clarification comes against reports that two suspected members of the Vikings confraternity, including a man identified as Ita, allegedly a former “Number Two” figure of the group at UNICROSS, were arrested following a reported clash involving members of rival groups.
The reported confrontation was said to have stemmed from a disagreement over alleged movement or “cross-carpeting” of a student between the groups. However, the reported arrests and other details surrounding the confrontation could not be independently verified by CrossRiverWatch.
The university had earlier warned students against gangsterism , violence, intimidation and other misconduct following a reported confrontation around the New Cafe area on September 8, during which students were allegedly seen chasing members of another group with cutlasses.
In a separate development, the Police Command said it held a security meeting with the Vice Chancellor, Professor Francisca Bassey, on September 11 to discuss security arrangements around the institution, including concerns over gang-related activities and other threats to academic activities.
The meeting focused on security coordination, information sharing and increased attention to emerging threats ahead of the examination period.
When contacted by CrossRiverWatch, the university’s Public Relations Officer said he had not been around and referred the reporter to the institution’s Chief Security Officer for further information.
There are also unconfirmed reports of a possible death linked to the alleged confrontation, but this could not be independently established as of the time of filing.
With final-year examinations commencing Tuesday, attention is now focused on maintaining peace and ensuring that students can complete the examination process without disruption.
UNICROSS management has also warned students against violence and unauthorised “signing-out” activities capable of threatening security on campus.
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