A building collapse in Otolo-Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State, has resulted in the death of a 25-year-old man, Bakeru Iwal. According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred during demolition work on Tuesday when a section of the structure suddenly collapsed, trapping Iwal inside. The building was being demolished when the incident happened.
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the incident and initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse. Police spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga stated that operatives promptly responded to the scene, cordoned off the area, and commenced preliminary investigations. The body of the deceased was evacuated to a mortuary for preservation pending autopsy and other necessary examinations.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the building collapse occurred when a section of the structure suddenly gave way, trapping one of the workers inside. The police have documented the scene as part of their investigation. The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Ama, has directed that the investigation be conducted professionally and thoroughly to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The police investigation aims to determine whether any person bears responsibility for the incident, with appropriate action to be taken based on the outcome of the investigation. The Command has urged members of the public to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed. Further updates will be provided as necessary, the statement added.
This incident is not an isolated case, as a similar incident occurred in Lagos State earlier in September. A two-storey building undergoing manual demolition collapsed in the Aboru area of Lagos State, killing one person and rescuing two others. The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed the incident at No. 42, Governors Road, Aboru.
The Lagos State incident highlights the risks associated with building demolition and the importance of ensuring that such work is carried out with adequate safety measures in place. Authorities in both Anambra and Lagos States have emphasized the need for building professionals to adhere to safety standards and regulations to prevent such incidents.
The Anambra State Police Command has assured the public that it will conduct a thorough investigation into the building collapse and take necessary actions to prevent similar incidents in the future. The incident has raised concerns about building safety and the need for stricter regulations and enforcement in the construction industry.
Key points
- One person died in a building collapse in Otolo-Nnewi, Anambra State, during demolition work on Tuesday.
- The Anambra State Police Command has initiated an investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
- The incident highlights the risks associated with building demolition and the importance of ensuring that such work is carried out with adequate safety measures in place.
