The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the rescue of two construction workers from the debris of a collapsed three-storey building along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Awka.
The structure, which was near the Central Bank of Nigeria building and adjacent to Diamond Pizza, opposite Five Star Restaurant, was at the roofing stage when it suddenly gave way late Wednesday night.
Eyewitnesses described the collapse as abrupt, noting that there were no visible warning signs.
Initial rescue efforts were carried out by bystanders and passersby before the arrival of emergency officials, including personnel from the state fire service and the materials testing department of the Ministry of Housing.
A resident near the site recounted the terrifying moment, “We heard a series of thunderous sounds and rushed out to investigate, only to witness the building crumbling to the ground. The sounds attracted other passersby and commuters who later joined in the efforts to assist in rescue efforts.”
Although the exact cause of the collapse remains unclear, authorities have secured the area with caution tapes while investigations continue.
State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed on Thursday that the rescued workers were immediately taken to a hospital and are currently responding to treatment.
He assured that no fatalities had been recorded so far.
“We have rescued two workers from the rubbles of the collapsed structure late in the night. And they have been taken to a hospital. For now, no life was lost as the victims are responding to treatment.
“The scene has been cordoned off, and rescue operations are still ongoing to ensure no one is still trapped in the rubbles.
“Meanwhile, the site engineer and the owner of the building have been invited for questioning.”
Meanwhile, officials from the Awka Capital Territory Development Authority have also visited the site to assess the extent of the damage and determine the cause of the collapse.
In a press release on Thursday, the agency’s Managing Director, Ozo Ossy Onuko, announced the formation of a panel to investigate the incident.
“Officials of Awka Capital Territory Development Authority have visited the site of a collapsed three-storey building under construction near Diamond Pizza, opposite Five Star Restaurant, along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway in Awka, Anambra State.
“The agency has immediately constituted a panel of inquiry to determine the remote and immediate cause of the collapse. Further details will be communicated as they unravel.”
As investigations continue, authorities are urging caution and vigilance to prevent future occurrences of such incidents.
