The management of the University of Benin has confirmed that no lives were lost in the building collapse that occurred early Saturday morning in Ekosodin, a student-populated area near the campus. Three students who were trapped in the collapse have been successfully rescued.
In a statement released by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Benedicta Ehanire, it was revealed that the rescued students are currently receiving treatment at the hospital and are recovering well.
The statement further noted that while several students have already been rescued, efforts are ongoing to search for any remaining individuals who might still be trapped under the rubble.
The statement of UNIBEN read, “The management of the University of Benin says the three students of the Institution who were rescued from the collapsed storey building at Ekosodin neighbouring community are in stable condition in hospital.
“Reports indicate that the building, where the students resided, collapsed on Saturday morning following the downpour which began Friday afternoon, and that no life was lost.
“Rescue team comprising staff of the Security and Fire service departments, the Health Centre, students as well as the Police succeeded in rescuing the students who were first taken to the institution’s Health Centre before two of them were later taken to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital.
“Management wishes the affected students speedy recovery and commends the rescue team for their gallantry.
Early on Saturday, the student community in Ekosodin was thrown into chaos when a multi-story building on Ekhator Street in Benin collapsed during a heavy morning downpour. This area, which borders the University of Benin, houses a large number of students who seek accommodation here when on-campus housing is unavailable.
An eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous, reported that a university rescue team quickly arrived at the scene and managed to extract several trapped occupants. Unfortunately, many of the rescued individuals sustained severe injuries and were promptly transported to the hospital for urgent medical care.
The collapse has caused significant concern among students and residents, highlighting the ongoing challenges of safe and adequate housing in the area.
“The rescue team is still searching for one of the victims who remains trapped inside the rubble called from inside, and the rescue team has continued its search to locate and rescue her and others who are still trapped,” the student said.
The Dean of Students from UNIBEN was said on the scene, coordinating rescue efforts alongside the university team.
When our correspondent contacted the State Fire service, an official in the control room, who identified himself as Sylvester, said that three of its trucks were there to assist in the rescue.
“Our men are on the ground to help in the rescue mission,” he added.
When contacted earlier on Saturday, the spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident.
He said, “Rescue operations are still ongoing, and until that is concluded, we cannot confirm whether there are death casualties or not.
“As soon as I have the report, we will let you know,” he said.
