Anambra Building Collapse: One Dead as Old Structure Collapses During Demolition in Nnewi, Police Probe Incident
By Globalvoice
One person has been confirmed dead after part of an old building collapsed during demolition in Otolo Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State, prompting a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal accident.
The deceased, identified as 25 year old Bakeru Iwal, was reportedly trapped when a section of the building suddenly collapsed while demolition work was underway.
The incident has renewed concerns over building safety, demolition procedures and compliance with safety standards in Anambra State, particularly as authorities investigate whether negligence or other factors contributed to the worker’s death.
Police Respond to Nnewi Building Collapse
The Anambra State Police Command said operatives from the Otolo Divisional Headquarters responded to the scene after receiving information about the building collapse.
According to the command, police officers immediately secured and cordoned off the area while preliminary investigations commenced.
The scene was also documented as investigators began examining the circumstances surrounding the Nnewi building demolition accident.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed that the body of the deceased worker was recovered from the collapsed structure and taken to a mortuary for preservation pending an autopsy and other necessary examinations.
“The scene was also documented, while the deceased, later identified as Bakeru Iwal, a 25 year old male, was evacuated to the mortuary for preservation, pending autopsy and other necessary examinations,” Ikenga said.
Worker Trapped as Building Section Collapses
Preliminary findings by the police indicate that the building was undergoing demolition when a section of the old structure unexpectedly gave way, trapping Iwal beneath the debris.
The circumstances surrounding the collapse are now the subject of an official investigation.
Authorities are expected to examine the demolition process, safety measures at the site and other factors that may have contributed to the fatal incident.
The case has also raised questions about occupational safety during building demolition and whether adequate precautions were in place to protect workers at the site.
Anambra Police Investigate Possible Negligence
The police said the investigation will determine whether negligence or any other factor played a role in the death.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnanna Oji Ama, has directed investigators to conduct a thorough and professional investigation and establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police will also determine whether any individual or organisation bears responsibility for the building collapse.
Ikenga said appropriate action would be taken based on the findings of the investigation.
“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, has directed that the investigation be conducted professionally and thoroughly to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and determine whether any person bears responsibility, with appropriate action to be taken based on the outcome of the investigation,” he stated.
Police Urge Public to Remain Calm
The Anambra State Police Command appealed to residents and members of the public to remain calm while investigators conduct their work.
The command said further information would be released as the investigation progresses.
The fatal incident adds to growing public concern over building collapses, demolition site safety and construction standards in Nigeria, highlighting the potential risks faced by workers when old or unstable structures are being dismantled.
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