Anambra State has recorded two separate cases of building collapse within the week, leaving one person dead in Onitsha and sparking fears of more casualties in Awka.
The first incident occurred on Tuesday when a two-storey residential building on Prince Chinedu Akwuaka Street, Akpaka GRA, Onitsha North Local Government Area, caved in around 9:00 a.m. Two occupants were rescued and rushed to the hospital, but one later died.
Chairman of Onitsha North LGA, Tony Nweze, confirmed the tragedy on Friday, linking it to possible regulatory breaches or construction malpractices. He pledged a full investigation and prosecution of anyone found culpable.
A resident, Osinachi Chukwudi, who witnessed the collapse, said he heard “two heavy sounds” before the building gave way. One victim survived, while the second, who was pulled out alive, was later confirmed dead at the hospital.
Police spokesperson in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, also confirmed the Onitsha incident, adding that the remains of the deceased had been deposited for autopsy while the survivor was responding to treatment. He said the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, had commiserated with the victim’s family and assured residents of measures to prevent future collapses.
Barely 48 hours later, on Thursday, a three-storey building under construction behind the Anambra State House of Assembly, near Ekwueme Square in Okpuno-Awka, collapsed while at the roofing stage.
Eyewitnesses said the structure fell with a thunderous sound, sparking panic as workers were believed to be inside at the time. Rescue operations were ongoing at press time, with security agencies and emergency responders mobilised to the site.
