By Chioma Nwankwo/Claribel Udah/Chika Obi
The Akpaka GRA community in Onitsha North was thrown into mourning in the early hours of yesterday after a residential building along Prince Chinedu Akwuaka Street collapsed, and allegedly claimed the life of one occupant.
Eyewitnesses said the incident could have been more devastating had it occurred later in the day, as most residents had already left for work before the structure gave way. The lone victim was pulled from the rubble alive but later succumbed to injuries despite frantic efforts by medical personnel to save him.
Responding swiftly, the Mayor of Onitsha North Local Government Area, Hon. Nweze Tony Nwora, arrived at the scene with emergency responders to oversee rescue operations and console grieving families. He described the incident as “painful and avoidable tragedy” and assured residents that government will not relent in enforcing safety standards to protect lives.
“This is a moment of grief for the entire Onitsha North family. But it is also a wake-up call. The government of Anambra State under Governor Chukwuma Soludo is committed to ensuring that such incidents are thoroughly investigated and never repeated.”
He directed the immediate cordoning off of the affected premises and ordered a technical assessment of nearby structures to prevent further danger.
The Mayor also commended Governor Soludo for prioritizing safety and infrastructure in urban communities, adding that his administration would work closely with relevant agencies to bring those responsible for any construction lapses to justice.
Community members, still shaken by the loss, expressed appreciation for the quick intervention of both the local government and state authorities. Many said the governor’s ongoing reforms in urban planning and housing gave them confidence that the state was serious about tackling unsafe building practices.
As Akpaka mourns the loss of one of its own, government officials have assured residents that lessons will be learned from the tragedy, promising stricter monitoring and enforcement to safeguard lives.
“This is not just about mourning the dead. It is about protecting the living. Together, with the support of Governor Soludo’s administration, we will ensure safer communities for Ndi Anambra.”
The officers are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
