BREAKING: Many feared dead as two-storey building collapses in Anambra market

A building has collapsed at Eke Amawbia Market in Awka, Anambra State, leaving many feared dead. The tragic incident happened at about 12 noon on Thursday, causing panic in the area. Eyewitnesses report that a two-storey shop building suddenly crumbled, burying numerous vegetable traders beneath the debris. As of press time, DAILY POST learnt that one person has been rescued and rushed to Amawbia Maternity Home for urgent medical attention, but many more are believed to be trapped inside the wreckage. A large contingent of police officers has arrived at the scene to coordinate rescue efforts and maintain order. Traders, who witnessed the collapse, blamed the disaster on substandard engineering work, alleging that the building’s structural integrity had been compromised. The rescue operation is ongoing, with emergency responders working tirelessly to search for survivors amid the rubble The atmosphere at the market is tense, with onlookers anxiously waiting for news of loved ones feared trapped in the building. The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the community, with many calling for an investigation into the cause of the collapse. Authorities have yet to comment on the incident, but promised to release a statement soon. As the rescue efforts continue, the death toll remains uncertain, but fears are mounting that the tragedy may have claimed multiple lives. The Amawbia Market, a bustling commercial hub, has been plunged into mourning, with traders and residents struggling to come to terms with the devastating loss. The incident has raised questions about the safety of buildings in the area, sparking concerns about potential risks to occupants.

Gunmen Kidnap 6 Anambra Clerics

Some yet-to-be-identified gunmen have reportedly abducted Archbishop Uka Uka Osim of the Brotherhood of the Cross and Star. The cleric, his wife, Anne Osim and son, Roland Uka Osim, and three other clerics from the ministry were abducted on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, in Abia State while travelling to Awka, the capital of Anambra State. They were reportedly on evangelical duties when they were ambushed by the armed men. The other three priests also kidnapped were identified as Azuka Ochu, Moses Okafor and Anderson Akwazie. The kidnapping incident was confirmed to journalists by the administrator of the spiritual organisation in Abia State, BCS, Bishop Denis Onuoha. He said four days later, the abductors had not reached out to anybody. “We are very worried, but we are assured that the Almighty Father, whom they worship and work for with total devotion, will help them out,” Bishop Onuoha told reporters. The cleric urged security agencies to assist and rescue the clergymen, stating that the church has embarked on deep prayers, believing that the Archbishop and his brethren will be rescued unhurt.