NEMA clears 50% debris of collapsed Anambra hostel, resumes rescue Tuesday

Search and rescue operations at the site of a collapsed three-storey building in Amaokpala, Anambra State, have been suspended for the day after emergency responders cleared at least 50 percent of the debris. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) announced that operations would resume Tuesday to continue the search for any victims potentially trapped beneath the remaining rubble.

“

The search and rescue operation at the site of the collapsed three-storey building in Amaokpala has been suspended for the day following intensive rescue efforts by all responding agencies.

NEMA officials reported that all rescue equipment was safely shut down following intensive efforts by multiple agencies. Priscilla Madukwe, NEMA's Head of Operations, commended the commitment and professionalism of all responding agencies, urging continued cooperation as activities restart. The coordinated multi-agency response, including the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency, Federal Road Safety Corps, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, is set to continue until the mission concludes.

“

All rescue equipment has been safely shut down, and operations will resume tomorrow to continue the search for any victims who may still be trapped beneath the remaining debris.

The collapse of the student hostel, which was under construction, had raised fears of trapped individuals. However, the management of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, has refuted claims of student fatalities. The institution clarified that the building was not owned by the polytechnic and that verification confirmed no students were among those affected by the incident.

“

At least 50 per cent of the debris was successfully cleared during the operation, representing significant progress in the ongoing emergency response.