Many trapped as 20-storey building collapses in Delta

A 20-storey hotel building under construction in Asaba, Delta State, collapsed, leaving eight individuals fighting for their lives. The incident unfolded near the prominent Delta Mall, home to Shoprite, and is owned by the renowned billionaire businessman and founder of Rain Oil Group, Chief Gabriel Ogbechie.

According to an eyewitness, Onyinye Okei, the calamity struck suddenly as construction workers were diligently engaged in their tasks. Startled by a deafening noise, Okei recounted that approximately eight individuals sustained injuries and were swiftly transported to a hospital by their fellow workers.

Following an inspection of the site, the State Commissioner for Urban Renewal, Mr. Michael Anoka, attributed the collapse to a structural defect. Thankfully, he confirmed that no casualties were reported. Anoka stated, “The Ministry is still investigating. The government is already taking measures, and as you can see, the compound has been sealed. After our investigation, we will compile a comprehensive report on today’s events.”

Assurance was provided to the public as Anoka emphasized the government’s proactive efforts to prevent such incidents in the future, saying, “Everyone should remain calm; the government had already initiated measures before today’s incident. We are in the process of implementing protocols to avert similar situations.”