Many feared trapped as three-storey student hostel collapses in Anambra

A three-storey student hostel, known as Elite Five Star Lodge, collapsed in Amokpala, Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria, trapping an unknown number of occupants in the early hours of Monday.

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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.

The building's collapse sent shockwaves through the community, with residents and passers-by rushing to the scene. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud noise before the structure gave way, followed by shouts for help from those trapped inside. The majority of the occupants are believed to be students.

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And within moments after the loud noise from the building, the occupants inside started shouting for help as the building fell.

Rescue efforts were immediately launched, with officials from the Anambra State Fire Service, the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency, and other emergency responders working alongside security personnel and volunteers. The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident and urged the public to remain calm as operations continued. The police, in collaboration with other security agencies, secured the area to prevent further danger and coordinated the rescue operations.

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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.

Some injured victims have been rescued from the debris and transported to a hospital in Oko for medical attention. However, the exact number of casualties or affected persons has not yet been confirmed. Rescue operations are ongoing to reach anyone who might still be trapped within the rubble. The cause of the collapse is not immediately clear.

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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.