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The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has expressed sorrow over the recent building collapses in Anambra and Ogun states.
In a statement posted on X on Wednesday, Obi described the incidents as heartbreaking and extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
“The collapse of structures housing, among others, some students of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Amaokpala, Anambra State, is deeply distressing. I am saddened by the tragic loss of two lives in this unfortunate incident,” he wrote.
Obi noted that although those who died were not students of the institution, the tragedy had affected the wider academic community.
The former Anambra State governor also reacted to a separate building collapse in Ogun State on Tuesday, which occurred only days after the Amaokpala incident.
“Coming barely days after the unfortunate similar incident at Amaokpala, the reported collapse of a building in Ogun State, with the loss of lives, is another painful reminder of the urgent need to prioritise the safety of our people.”
The building that collapsed in Amaokpala reportedly served as off-campus accommodation for students and other residents.
The incident claimed two lives and left several others injured, prompting emergency rescue efforts by state agencies and security personnel.
A separate building collapse in Ogun State also resulted in fatalities, renewing concerns over compliance with building standards and structural safety across Nigeria.
Obi commended the response of both state governments and emergency agencies for their rescue efforts.
“I commend the Anambra State Government, the Ogun State Government, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr Chioma Irene Awuzie, emergency responders, security agencies, and all involved in the rescue and relief efforts for their swift and coordinated response. Their prompt actions helped prevent what could have been even greater tragedies.”
He said the two incidents should prompt governments and regulatory agencies to take stronger action against unsafe construction practices.
Obi added that protecting lives must remain a priority, particularly in educational communities.
“The safety and welfare of our citizens, especially our young people, must remain central to our development efforts. We must continue to invest not only in educational infrastructure but also in ensuring that every environment in which our people live and learn is safe and fit for purpose.”
He also offered prayers for those affected by the disasters.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives, those who were injured, the students affected by the Amaokpala incident, and all impacted by these unfortunate events. May God grant eternal rest to the deceased, comfort their loved ones, and grant the injured a swift recovery.”
The concerning building collapses in Anambra and Ogun States.
The collapse of structures housing, among others, some students of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Amaokpala, Anambra State, is deeply distressing. I am saddened by the tragic loss of two lives in this unfortunate…
— Peter Obi (@PeterObi) July 29, 2026
