Two Dead, Three Injured as Students’ Hostel Collapses in Anambra
No fewer than two persons have been confirmed dead, while three others sustained injuries following the collapse of a three-storey building serving as an off-campus hostel for students of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
Rescue officials said search-and-rescue operations would continue as authorities fear that more occupants may still be trapped beneath the rubble.
The Acting Executive Secretary of the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Mrs Ndidi Omega, confirmed the casualty figure on Monday, after emergency responders concluded the day’s rescue exercise.
According to her, two persons lost their lives in the tragic incident, while three others were rescued alive from the debris and are currently receiving treatment at a medical facility.
“The rescue operation will continue tomorrow, but at the end of today’s activity, two persons are confirmed dead and three injured,” Omega said.
The collapsed structure, located in Oko community, was reportedly used as an off-campus hostel accommodating students of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, alongside other tenants.
Meanwhile, the Anambra State Government has sealed off the premises and commenced a full-scale investigation into the cause of the collapse, while efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the owner and manager of the property.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Chijioke Ojukwu, disclosed that preliminary findings indicated the building had exhibited signs of structural distress before the unfortunate incident.
According to the commissioner, available evidence suggests that structural alterations were being carried out on the building despite obvious indications of impending failure, alleging that the owner placed financial interests above the safety and welfare of the occupants.
Ojukwu further announced that the state government would immediately commence structural integrity assessments on neighbouring buildings within the area to forestall similar tragedies.
He added that the collapsed building would remain sealed until investigations are concluded, assuring residents that the government would make its official position known upon completion of the inquiry.
Emergency responders are expected to resume search-and-rescue operations as authorities continue efforts to determine whether additional victims remain trapped beneath the collapsed structure.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
