The University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC) is in deep grief after a Level 300 Top-Up Journalism student, Nelson Blay Nokotey, lost his life in a hit-and-run incident on the George Walker Bush Highway (N1) near the Dzorwulu traffic light intersection on Monday, January 19, 2026.
Nelson, a promising third-year journalism student, was struck by an unregistered vehicle while attempting to cross the busy highway after visiting the South Legon campus to sort out issues with his student portal and academic registration. Witnesses described the collision as disturbing, saying the driver briefly stopped as if to assist before speeding off and abandoning him at the scene.
His body was later discovered by a police patrol team hours after the crash, intensifying grief among classmates, lecturers, and friends who had been unaware of his whereabouts earlier in the week. UniMAC management confirmed the tragedy and described the incident as a “grave violation of the sanctity of human life.”
The loss has reignited concerns over pedestrian safety along the N1 Highway, particularly near the South Legon campus. Students and residents say crossing the high-speed corridor is hazardous, especially during afternoon peak hours when traffic volumes surge. Many have called for improved infrastructure, including pedestrian bridges, better signage, lighting, and stricter enforcement of traffic rules.
UniMAC authorities have engaged with the National Road Safety Authority, municipal officials, and the Ghana Police Service to review current safety conditions. Management said it will push for measures to protect students, staff, and commuters, though no definitive action plan has been released yet.
In a show of solidarity and mourning, fellow students held a candlelight vigil on January 23, 2026, paying tribute to Nelson’s life and renewing urgent calls for road safety reforms to prevent further loss of life. During the vigil, student leaders emphasized that the tragedy must serve as a catalyst for real change rather than just another statistic.
Ayawaso West Wuogon Member of Parliament John Dumelo also weighed in, describing Nelson’s death as “deeply unfortunate” and pledging to work with relevant authorities on practical interventions to protect pedestrians along the N1 corridor. He offered condolences to the bereaved family and the UniMAC community.
As investigations continue and calls for safer crossings grow louder, Nelson Blay Nokotey’s death has become a powerful reminder of the urgent need for improved road safety around educational campuses in Accra.
