AWKA, Nigeria — The management of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Anambra State, has dismissed reports claiming that students lost their lives following the collapse of a privately owned hostel in Amaokpala, insisting that no student died in the incident.
In a statement issued after the building collapse, the institution said information circulating on social media alleging fatalities among its students was false and misleading. The polytechnic urged members of the public to disregard the reports and rely only on verified information from official sources.
According to the management, the collapsed structure is a privately owned off-campus hostel located in Amaokpala, where some students of the institution reside. It emphasized that emergency responders acted swiftly after the incident, carrying out rescue operations and ensuring that affected occupants received immediate attention.
The institution stated that although some occupants sustained injuries during the collapse, there were no confirmed deaths involving students of the polytechnic. It added that all rescued victims were taken to medical facilities for treatment while rescue personnel continued clearing debris to ensure no one remained trapped.
Federal Polytechnic, Oko, commended emergency agencies, security personnel and members of the local community for their prompt response, which it said helped prevent further casualties. The management also expressed sympathy to those injured and wished them a speedy recovery.
The school appealed to students, parents and the general public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic. It stressed that inaccurate reports could cause emotional distress to families and hinder ongoing rescue and investigation efforts.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the building collapse, with officials expected to determine whether structural defects, poor construction standards or other factors contributed to the incident. The outcome of the investigation is expected to guide further action against those found responsible.
The incident has renewed concerns about the safety of privately owned student hostels in university and polytechnic communities across Nigeria. Stakeholders have continued to call for stricter enforcement of building regulations, regular structural inspections and improved monitoring of student accommodation to prevent similar tragedies.
The management of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and welfare of its students, pledging to continue working closely with government agencies, emergency responders and relevant authorities as investigations into the hostel collapse continue.
