Tragedy Strikes: Three Muni University Staff Die in Road Crash, Two Critically Injured
Summary:
- According to the university, the team was returning to Arua from Kampala after official duty when their vehicle collided with a truck in Pakwach District.
Pakwach District | September 28, 2025 — Muni University is mourning the loss of three of its staff members who died in a tragic road accident that occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning along the Pakwach–Nebbi highway.
The deceased have been identified as:
- Rev. Canon Patrick Acema, Chaplain of the Advent of Christ Chapel
- Washington Opio, Senior Sports Tutor
- Kennedy Acidri, University driver
According to the university, the team was returning to Arua from Kampala after official duty when their vehicle collided with a truck in Pakwach District. Two other university staff members, Oriba Bruno and Enayo Victor, sustained critical injuries and were rushed to Pakwach Health Centre IV for urgent medical attention.
In an official statement, Associate Professor Simon Anguma Katrini, Vice Chancellor of Muni University, expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident. “We are devastated by the loss of our colleagues. They were dedicated staff who were committed to the service of the university and the community,” he said.
The accident occurred at approximately 1:40 AM in Nyapolo Village, Alwi Sub-county, along the Pakwach–Arua Highway.
SP Anguyo Jimmy Bayiga, the West Nile Region Police Spokesperson, confirmed the accident and said investigations are ongoing. He reported that the university’s Toyota Double Cabin (registration UBF 850H) collided with a SINO Truck (registration UAW 523Z) belonging to China 18th Railway Construction Company. The truck driver is yet to be identified.
“The impact of the crash killed three occupants instantly,” SP Anguyo stated. “The bodies of the deceased were taken to Pakwach Health Centre IV for postmortem, while the injured are receiving treatment.”
The tragic incident has sparked renewed concern about the state of roads in the region. While speaking during World Tourism Day celebrations held in Arua City, Hon. Atima Lee Jackson, Member of Parliament for Arua Central Division, expressed dismay at the poor condition of some road sections, noting that ongoing closures and disrepair are contributing to increased road accidents.
“This unfortunate loss underscores the urgent need for better road infrastructure and safety measures in our region,” he emphasized.
As investigations continue, the university community and families of the victims are grappling with the heavy loss of lives that has shaken the West Nile region.
