The Senatorial Candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) for Anambra South, Chief Ebuka Onunkwo, has called for immediate assistance for victims of the building collapse in Amaokpala, Orumba North Local Government Area, urging the Anambra State Government and relevant agencies to intensify rescue and relief efforts.
In a statement following the tragic incident involving a private hostel near the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Onunkwo expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and injuries sustained by several victims, describing the incident as a painful tragedy for the affected families and the entire community.
He extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of those receiving medical treatment, while expressing hope that ongoing rescue operations would successfully reach anyone still trapped beneath the rubble.
The NDC senatorial flagbearer commended emergency responders, security personnel, healthcare workers, volunteers and community members for their swift response and dedication in the rescue efforts despite the challenging circumstances.
Onunkwo urged the Anambra State Government, emergency management agencies and humanitarian organisations to mobilise all available resources to sustain rescue operations, provide quality medical care for the injured and offer support to affected families.
He also called for a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the building collapse, insisting that the outcome should be made public and that anyone found culpable of negligence should be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
According to him, the incident underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of building regulations, regular structural integrity assessments and improved monitoring of facilities, particularly hostels accommodating students.
Chief Onunkwo assured the people of Amaokpala, Oko and the entire Orumba North community of his solidarity during the difficult period, praying for comfort for grieving families, healing for the injured and strength for all those involved in the rescue and recovery operations.
