School Building Collapse Claims Life of Pupil in Delta State

A tragic incident unfolded at Eghereka Primary School in Ewu Town, Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State, where a dilapidated six-classroom block collapsed, resulting in the death of a pupil and injuries to several others. This incident adds to the growing concerns over building safety in Nigeria, particularly within educational institutions.

According to Edafe Bright, the spokesman for the Delta State Police Command, the building caved in while pupils were walking past it. The collapse claimed the life of Primary 2 pupil Ojiyovwin Salvation and left three other students with varying degrees of injuries.

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased pupil in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon. He described the situation as "most unfortunate," noting that the six-classroom block, which had been unused for over a decade, collapsed under heavy rain.

“The Governor commiserates with the family of the deceased pupil, the management and staff of the school, as well as the other pupils injured in this unfortunate incident,” the statement read. Governor Oborevwori praised the prompt actions taken to rescue the injured pupils and revealed that the Local Government Council Chairman, Lucky Avweromre, visited the site to provide necessary support to the victims and the bereaved family.

The ongoing prevalence of building collapses in Nigeria, particularly in schools, has raised alarms among experts. Factors such as the use of substandard materials are often cited as significant contributors to these tragic incidents. Earlier this year, several fatalities were reported in a similar incident in Plateau State, highlighting the urgent need for improved building standards across the country.