Several students of the University of Benin are feared trapped after a three-storey building collapsed in Ekosodin, an off-campus community predominantly inhabited by students.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning following a heavy downpour that lasted until around 10 am.
According to a staff member of the University who spoke to Vanguard on condition of anonymity, the collapse was reported earlier this morning. “We were on duty when we got the call and we are on the scene. Some people have been rescued, but others are still trapped. We are calling for more hands to ensure that the occupants are rescued,” the staff member said, confirming that rescue efforts were ongoing at the scene.
The exact number of students trapped in the rubble remains unknown at this time. The cause of the collapse is believed to be related to the heavy rainfall experienced in the area, but an official investigation is yet to be conducted.
As of the time of reporting, the University of Benin management has not released an official statement regarding the incident. Concerned parents and students are anxiously awaiting further information on the fate of those trapped in the collapsed building.
Ekosodin, the location of the incident, is a popular residential area for students of the University of Benin due to its proximity to the campus. The community has faced criticism in the past for substandard housing conditions
and inadequate infrastructure.
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