The government of Anambra State remains concerned that additional occupants could be buried within the ruins of the student hostel that recently fell. Rescue efforts are ongoing to ensure that every individual is located.
Chijioke Ojukwu, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, noted during a media appearance that between three and five individuals might still be missing. He emphasized that the facility’s management is responsible for providing an accurate count of those who were present.
Investigations suggest the building had pre-existing structural flaws that management failed to address. Ojukwu remarked that financial motives appear to have been prioritized over student safety. A specialized committee including engineers and architects has been formed to probe the incident. Furthermore, officials plan to inspect nearby buildings for similar issues, with the intention of demolishing any structures that fail safety assessments. The commissioner pledged to hold all negligent parties accountable and stated that land where such collapses occur due to negligence may be reclaimed by the state.
