Awgu Tragedy: Five Family Members Die As Reservoir Collapses In Enugu

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Five members of the same family have died after a concrete water reservoir attached to an uncompleted building collapsed onto their home in Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

The incident occurred at about 5:45 a.m. on September 18, 2026, at Umuike-Aja Village, Nenwenta Community.

According to the Enugu State Police Command’s SP Daniel Ndukwe in a statement, the collapsed reservoir fell onto the adjoining house of a neighbour identified as Raphael Onwu, killing him, his wife, mother and two children.

Ndukwe said police operatives from Awgu Division, supported by the National Emergency Management Agency, NEMA, and community members, responded to the scene.

A nine-year-old boy was rescued from the debris and taken to hospital, where he is receiving treatment.

The five deceased family members were also recovered and taken to the hospital, where they were confirmed dead. Their remains were subsequently deposited at the mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa

The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse.

The owner of the building on which the reservoir was constructed, identified as Nkwo Onyedikachi Geoffrey, has also been arrested in connection with the incident.

The Commissioner condoled with the bereaved family and the community, assuring them that appropriate action would follow the outcome of the investigation.

He also urged members of the public to avoid unsafe construction practices and ensure compliance with approved safety standards by engaging qualified professionals.

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