Edo govt confirms rescue of trapped UNIBEN students in collapsed building, orders investigation

The Edo State Government has confirmed the successful rescue of all University of Benin (UNIBEN) students trapped in a collapsed three-storey building in Benin City.

Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Projects, announced that no fatalities were recorded, and the students are receiving medical attention.

The collapse occurred on Ekhator Street, off Ekosodin Road, near the UNIBEN campus. Emergency responders, including the Edo State Fire Service, were swiftly deployed to the scene, along with heavy machinery to clear the debris.

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The state government has launched a full investigation to determine the cause of the collapse and has ordered an audit of nearby buildings to assess their structural integrity. Osagie commended the efforts of the emergency responders and local community members for their swift action.

The University of Benin also confirmed that the rescued students are in stable condition, with two receiving treatment at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH). According to the university’s spokesperson, Dr. Benedicta Ehanire, the building collapse followed heavy rainfall, and the students were first treated at the institution’s Health Centre before being transferred to UBTH.

The Edo State Government assured the public that officials are stationed at the site to provide ongoing updates as the investigation proceeds.