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A three-storey building used as a student hostel collapsed in Anambra State in the early hours of Monday, reportedly trapping an unknown number of occupants beneath the rubble, police and local officials said.
The building, identified as Elite Five Star Lodge, is located beside Tonimas Filling Station in Amokpala, Oko, in Orumba North Local Government Area.
An eyewitness, who identified herself as Ifeoma, said the collapse was preceded by a loud noise.
“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,” she said.
“Within moments after the loud noise, the occupants inside started shouting for help as the building fell.”
Videos and photographs shared online showed rescue workers, security personnel, and volunteers searching through the debris for survivors.
Emergency responders, including the Anambra State Fire Service and the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency, were carrying out rescue operations at the scene, with the support of security agencies.
Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday, urging residents to remain calm while rescue efforts continued.
“The Anambra State Police-led Joint Security Team assures the public that rescue operations are ongoing,” Ikenga said.
“Some injured victims have been rescued from the debris and evacuated to a hospital in Oko, where they are currently receiving medical attention,” he said.
He noted that the number of casualties or affected persons could not yet be confirmed and appealed to the public to avoid spreading unverified information.
“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.
