Anambra SEMA rescue female victim in building collapse

By Imisioluwa Afunmiso

Operatives of the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) have recovered the body of a female victim from the collapsed three-storey Elite Five Star Lodge in Amokpala, Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, while efforts continue to rescue other trapped occupants.

The building, which collapsed late Sunday, was reportedly occupied by students and other residents.

The Acting Executive Secretary, of the agency, Mrs. Ndidi Omega, confirmed the development.

She noted that the body of a young man believed to be a student had also been located beneath the rubble but was yet to be recovered.

She added that three injured persons were rescued earlier and taken to hospital for treatment.

According to Omega, rescue operations will continue until all sections of the debris have been thoroughly searched.

Personnel of the Nigerian Red Cross Society, National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), SEMA, Anambra State Fire Service, the Nigeria Police Force, other security agencies and Operation Udo Ga-Achi are participating in the operation.

The rescue team is using excavators and other heavy-duty equipment to clear the debris while searching for survivors.

Security operatives have cordoned off the area to prevent interference and allow emergency responders unrestricted access to the site.

The police appealed to residents to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and cooperate with emergency personnel, assuring that further updates would be provided as the operation continues.

The cause of the building collapse had yet to be officially established as of the time of filing this report.