Abakaliki, Nigeria — The Ebonyi State Government has ordered the immediate evacuation of students from a private hostel, Pentagon Lodge, following the partial collapse of the three-storey building that endangered the lives of over 70 student residents.
The directive was issued by the State Commissioners for Capital City Development, Housing, and Internal Security—Chief Sunday Inyima, Mr. Francis Ori, and Chief Eta Uka—during a press briefing at the site of the collapse in Izzangbo Ohankwu village, near a university in Ikwo.
Speaking to journalists, Chief Inyima stated that the building had been sealed off and students relocated to safer accommodations within the university premises through collaboration with the school management.
“We commend Governor Francis Nwifuru for his swift response,” he said. “Immediately after receiving the report, he mobilized all relevant ministries to inspect the site and ensure the safety of students.”
A panel of inquiry has been set up to investigate the immediate and remote causes of the collapse. According to Inyima, “We are also conducting an integrity test on the structure and will submit a comprehensive report to the governor by Monday.”
The Commissioner for Internal Security has been tasked with ensuring the area is cordoned off and that no student returns to the unsafe premises. “We cannot afford to lose any life,” Inyima emphasized.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that two students were initially trapped but were rescued by first responders.
Vice-Chancellor of the affected university, Professor Sunday Elom, expressed deep concern over the proliferation of private hostels constructed without proper regulatory oversight.
He urged the government to enforce building standards and punish individuals or agencies found guilty of negligence. “This building does not belong to the university,” he clarified, “but it housed our students, and we must do everything to protect them.”
Professor Elom offered sympathy to displaced students and assured them of the university’s full support, directing them to work with the Student Union Government and the Dean of Student Affairs for proper documentation and immediate relief.
By Makinde oyinkansola| July 26, 2025
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