A grim scene unfolded at the Odu-Igbo Market in Onitsha, Anambra State, as a two-storey building collapsed, claiming the lives of at least six people.
The incident, which occurred on Monday evening, sent shockwaves through the bustling commercial city.
The building, still under construction and intended to serve as a market upon completion, crumbled at around 6:41 pm, trapping workers and traders inside.
Despite rescue efforts, the toll rose to six confirmed fatalities, with over 20 others rescued and receiving medical treatment for various injuries.
While official figures put the casualty count at six, eyewitnesses and residents claimed that over 10 bodies had been recovered, with some still trapped under the rubble. The collapse, marked by a thunderous noise, sparked panic among those in and around the market.
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Governor Chukwuma Soludo, visibly moved by the tragedy, visited the scene to assess the situation firsthand. Expressing profound sadness, he termed the incident “tragic” and vowed to address the root causes, including illegal construction and impunity.
Soludo announced that rescue efforts were ongoing to locate any remaining trapped individuals. He pledged government support for the hospital bills of the injured and assured that those responsible for the unauthorized construction would face legal consequences.
The collapsed building, erected without government approval, underscored the need for stringent oversight and safety measures in construction projects. The governor vowed to prioritize public safety and enforce regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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As investigations into the cause of the collapse continue, the community mourns the loss of lives and grapples with the aftermath of the devastating incident. The tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with substandard construction practices and the urgent need for stricter enforcement of building regulations.
