Worker dies in building collapse in Anambra

One person died on Tuesday when an old building partially collapsed in Otolo-Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area, Anambra State.

PREMIUM TIMES gathered that the victim, identified as Bakeru Iwal, was in the building when a part of it collapsed and trapped him.

The incident happened while the structure was being demolished. The deceased was among the workers carrying out the demolition.

Police speak

The Anambra State Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday.

Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said police operatives attached to the Otolo Divisional Headquarters responded promptly after receiving information about the incident.

The spokesperson said the operatives subsequently cordoned off the area and commenced preliminary investigations, which established that the deceased victim, Mr Iwal, was a 25-year-old man.

The victim, he said, was evacuated to the mortuary for preservation, pending autopsy and other necessary examinations.

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“Preliminary information indicates that the building was being demolished when a section of the structure suddenly collapsed, trapping one of the workers,” he confirmed.

Mr Ikenga said the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnanna Ama, has directed that the investigation be conducted “professionally and thoroughly” to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The police spokesperson further said the investigation would determine whether anyone bears responsibility, with appropriate action to be taken based on the outcome.

“The Command urges members of the public to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed, while further updates will be provided as necessary,” he said.