A building housing Salvation Ministries, Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area, Delta State has collapsed, trapping unspecified number of worshippers with over 10 deaths recorded.
The building which is being used for the first time, reportedly collapsed at about 5:55pm during Tuesday evening service.
About eight persons have been rescued unhurt, while four persons have been rushed to the Asaba Specialist Hospital for medical attention.
As at the time of filing this report, Secretary to the State Government, SSG, Chief Patrick Ukah, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Ononye Mordi, team of Red Cross officers, and fire fighters were on ground on a rescue mission.
Worshippers, family members and sympathizers were seen crying as efforts were on to rescue other trapped victims.
A church member, who simply identified herself as Grace, said the service was ongoibg when the building collapsed with a thunderous noise, saying; “we were clapping and praying when suddenly we heard the cracking and the building swallowed the chuldren section with the children.”
According to her, they were observing their new year 21 days prayers, adding that they came for evening service to break the day fasting with a communion service when the building collapsed.
A woman who was wailing beyond control at the scene, said her three children were among those trapped in the building.
Meanwhile, a government source has said that only one person died, adding that other victims were rushed to the hospital for medical attention.
