Two people have been confirmed dead while three others are currently hospitalised following the collapse of a four-storey building in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The building on Iman Street by Nse Ntip, off Aka Road in Uyo, collapsed on Saturday, September 17, and rescue workers began rescue operations.
The Regional Manager of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Mr Godwin Topikor confirmed on Sunday, September 18, that two have died while three others are hospitalised.
He said one of the deceased died in the collapsed building, while one out of four rescued persons died in the hospital.
The Akwa Ibom State Government has set up a panel of enquiry to look into the collapse, while directing the Commissioner for Health to immediately take over the management of the survivors.
The Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Mr Ini Ememobong, revealed this in a press statement on Sunday.
It reads: “Following the unfortunate incident of the collapse of a four-storey building on Iman street off Aka Road in Uyo, our state capital, the Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has expressed his deepest condolences to the families whose relatives were trapped and eventually died in the collapsed building, while wishing the survivors a quick recovery. He has directed the Commissioner for Health to immediately take over the management of the survivors.
“Consequently, the Governor has directed the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service to immediately set up a panel of inquiry to investigate the unfortunate incident. The panel is to conclude its work within one month, and if it is found that the collapse of the building was a result of any acts of negligence or wrongdoing, those responsible will face the full wrath of the law.
“The Governor also expressed his sincere appreciation to all the first responders, rescue and security agencies, Government Officials, voluntary organizations and all citizens who took part(especially the construction companies that donated their equipment) in the rescue operation which lasted many hours.”
