Heavy rainfall in Delta State caused the collapse of a dilapidated six-classroom block at Eghereka Primary School in Ewu Town, Ughelli South Local Government Area, tragically claiming the life of a pupil and injuring several others.
Details of the Collapse
The Delta State Police Command spokesperson, Edafe Bright said that the abandoned building had been in a state of disrepair for years, having no roof. The building caved in as the pupils walked passed it, killing one of them and injuring the others. The classroom block had been unused for over a decade and had deteriorated significantly, with its missing roof worsening the damage during the storm. A Primary 2 pupil Ojiyovwin Salvation was identified as the child who lost his life, while three other students suffered injuries in the collapse.
Governor’s Response
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori extended his condolences to the family of the deceased pupil in a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon. The Governor expressed deep sorrow over the event, describing it as a “most unfortunate” tragedy.
Governor Oborevwori commended the swift response of rescuers who attended to the injured children. He also noted that Ughelli South Local Government Chairman, Lucky Avweromre, visited both the scene of the collapse and the family of the deceased, offering necessary support to those affected by the incident.
Bottom Line
The tragic collapse of the school building is a reminder of the dangerous state of worn out and abandoned buildings and structures. As the community mourns the loss of a young life, there is a pressing call for proactive measures to prevent future disasters.