A three-storey building used as a student hostel has collapsed in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, leaving an unknown number of occupants trapped beneath the rubble.
The building, identified as Elite Five Star Lodge, is located beside Tonimas Filling Station in Amokpala, Oko. The structure reportedly gave way in the early hours of Monday, causing panic among residents and passers-by.
Eyewitnesses said many of those inside the building at the time of the collapse were believed to be students, although the number of casualties has yet to be confirmed.
One resident, Ifeoma, said the incident happened shortly after a loud sound was heard from the building.
“We heard a very loud noise before the building collapsed. The noise attracted many residents and students, who rushed to the scene to see what had happened.
“And within moments after the loud noise from the building, the occupants inside started shouting for help as the building fell.”
READ ALSO:
- Anambra Student Hostel Collapses, Trapping Occupants
- Peter Obi: I’ll Unite Nigeria, Not Divide It If Elected President
- BBNaija S11: Meet The 24 Housemates Entering The ‘Show Ya Sef’ House
- Davido Surprises Mayorkun With Tesla Cybertruck Gift
- I Waited 20 Days For Burna Boy’s Verse On World Cup Anthem – Shakira
Videos and photographs circulating online showed emergency responders, security personnel and volunteers combing through the debris in search of survivors as large crowds gathered at the scene.
Officials of the Anambra State Fire Service, the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and other rescue agencies were said to have joined the operation.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said a joint security team had been deployed to coordinate rescue efforts.
“The Anambra State Police-led Joint Security Team assures the public that rescue operations are ongoing following the late-night incident on Sunday involving the collapse of a three-storey building known as Elite Five Star Lodge, located beside Tonimas Filling Station, Amokpala, Oko, in Orumba North Local Government Area of the state.
“The incident resulted in some occupants being trapped beneath the rubble. On receipt of the distress report, the Police, in collaboration with other security agencies, immediately mobilised to the scene, secured the area to prevent further danger, and coordinated rescue efforts.
“The Anambra State Fire Service and the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency also responded promptly and joined in the rescue operation.”
Ikenga said emergency workers were still searching for anyone who might remain trapped, adding that the number of victims had not yet been established.
“Some injured victims have been rescued from the debris and evacuated to a hospital in Oko, where they are currently receiving medical attention.
“Members of the public, especially residents in the area, are urged to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and stay away from the scene to allow emergency responders unrestricted access.
“Further updates will be communicated as more verified information becomes available,” he added.