Many Feared Trapped After Three-Storey Student Hostel Collapses in Anambra State

A three-storey student hostel known as Elite Five Star Lodge, located beside Tonimas Filling Station in Amokpala, Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, collapsed in the early hours of Monday, leaving an unknown number of occupants believed to be mostly students trapped under the rubble.  

 The building came down around late Sunday night/early Monday morning while occupants were inside, triggering panic among residents and passers-by.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud noise before the structure gave way, after which trapped individuals began shouting for help.

 Videos and photos circulating online show large crowds gathering at the scene as rescue workers, security personnel, and volunteers frantically search through the debris.

Officials from the Anambra State Fire Service, Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), police, and other emergency responders are actively involved in the operation.

 SP Tochukwu Ikenga, spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, confirmed the incident and stated that a joint security team had secured the area and coordinated rescue efforts.

Some injured victims have already been pulled from the rubble and taken to a hospital in Oko for treatment.

“The Anambra State Police-led Joint Security Team assures the public that rescue operations are ongoing,” Ikenga said.

“The number of casualties or affected persons could not yet be confirmed.” He urged residents to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and stay away from the scene to allow emergency teams unrestricted access.

 As of the latest reports, rescue operations continue in efforts to reach any remaining trapped individuals.

Further updates on casualties and the cause of the collapse are expected as more details emerge.

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