Calabar, Nigeria — July 26, 2025
By [Your Name], Staff Writer
Two lecturers from the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) have been missing for nearly two months after embarking on a road trip from Lagos to Calabar. The duo—Engr. Emmanuel Odu and Engr. Ndifon Vincent, both from the university’s Department of Mechanical Engineering—were last heard from on Friday, May 23, 2025, while traveling through Imo State.
According to Circular No. 478 released by the university and signed by the Registrar, Victor Ephriam Ene, the lecturers were returning from Lagos, where they had gone to purchase a vehicle, when communication with them suddenly ceased. The school confirmed that both men are still unaccounted for 57 days later.
“The Acting Vice Chancellor and members of the University’s Management team have been in constant communication with the Cross River State Commissioner of Police and the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), who are also liaising with their counterparts in Imo State,” the circular reads.
No Leads, No Contact
Despite concerted efforts by security agencies, families, and the university, there have been no updates—no communication from the missing lecturers or any possible abductors.
An emotional Mr. Ferdinand Okwor, uncle to Engr. Emmanuel Odu, told Vanguard News:
“They went missing on May 23 in Imo State while returning from Lagos. It’s now almost two months, and there’s been zero contact. It has been a period of devastating emotional, mental, and physical trauma for the families.”
Profiles of the Missing
- Engr. Emmanuel Odu is a former SUG President of UNICROSS and the only son of his parents.
- Engr. Ndifon Vincent is a young father with an infant child.
- Both men are 32 years old, childhood friends, and hold degrees in Mechanical Engineering.
The situation has drawn wide concern within and outside the university community. The UNICROSS management has urged the general public to report any helpful information to relevant security agencies or contact the dedicated phone line provided in the university’s official flier.
Call for Presidential Intervention
Mr. Okwor appealed directly to the President of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging him to intervene in the matter by instructing the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to mobilize a national-level search and rescue mission.
“We’re pleading with the President, the father of the nation, to weigh in and help us find our sons. We are desperate for answers,” Okwor stated.
Community Left in Limbo
As days turn into weeks, anxiety continues to mount over the fate of the two young academics. The Cross River academic community, friends, students, and well-wishers have been offering prayers, while demanding accountability and accelerated efforts from security authorities.
If You Have Any Information
Please contact the nearest police station or the number listed on the UNICROSS Missing Persons Flier. Any tip, no matter how small, could lead to a breakthrough.