Three-storey student hostel collapses in Anambra, many feared trapped

A three-storey student hostel, known as Elite Five Star Lodge, has collapsed in Amokpala, Oko, in Orumba North Local Government Area, Anambra State. The exact number of people trapped under the rubble has not yet been confirmed.

The structure, which is located next to Tonimas Filling Station, is said to have collapsed at the early hours of Monday.

The occurrence caused panic among residents and motorists within the locality after attempts were made to save those trapped in the building.

Majority of the people believed to be trapped in the building are likely to be students residing in the hostel.

At the time of reporting this story, it was unclear how many people were trapped, injured or dead.

Eyewitnesses said the structure collapsed while students were inside, raising fears that several people may still be buried under the rubble.

Rescue operations are expected to continue as officials work to determine the full extent of the incident.

One of the eyewitnesses, who identified herself simply as Ifeoma, said, “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.”

Videos and photographs shared online showed a large crowd at the scene as rescue workers, security personnel and volunteers searched through the debris for survivors.

Our correspondent gathered that officials of the Anambra State Fire Service, the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency and other emergency responders were carrying out rescue operations.

The spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a statement on Monday and urged residents to remain calm while rescue efforts continued.

Ikenga said, “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.”

He noted that rescue operations were ongoing to reach other persons who might still be trapped, adding that the number of casualties or affected persons could not yet be confirmed.

“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.

More details to follow…