Three People Dead, Others Injured As Church Building Collapse

Atleast three persons have been confirmed dead and scores of worshippers injured when Reigners Bible Church auditorium, Uyo in Akwa Ibom state collapsed during a special programme tagged ‘Bishopric enthronement.’

The Guild gathered that this year’s five-day event themed “the oil of greatness,” attracted worshippers across the state including the state governor, Udom Emmanuel, who was within the church premises when the building caved in on Saturday.

Sources said that the governor and the general overseer of the church, Akpan Weeks, sustained minor injury. And that the governor has been certified okay by the state medical team.

Worried by the impact of the disaster, the Guild gathered that the governor returned to the church premises to oversee evacuation and rescue of worshippers who were trapped in the collapsed building.
It was learned that the structure caved in on Saturday few minutes after the five-day programme, which ends Sunday started.

Eyewitness disclosed that the injured victims have been rushed to neighbouring health facilities including St Luke’s Hospital Anua, Lifecare Clinic, Nwaniba and the University of Uyo teaching Hospital.

Confirming the causalities, the Enthronement planning committee, said “Detailed reports of injuries and fatal casualties are yet to be ascertained. (But) we pray for the souls of the departed and implore heaven to heal the injured and broken hearted.

“God in His mercies chose to spare us not out of righteousness but by Grace. Only He alone can console those who have lost loved ones. It might be critical to exercise restraint at bandying number of casualties until a proper report is released by the authorities.”

The planning committee in the statement made available to pressmen, described the incident as a tragedy, appealed for prayers and support to assist the church surmount the disaster.

“We wish to thank the Governor who returned to the scene within 30 minutes to lend support and solidarity, the clergy who pulled the needed succor and intercessory prayers as well as the medical personnel, government and church officials as well as brethren in the City of Uyo and beyond who have demonstrated an uncommon response, support and intervention to reduce the burden and pain at this moment.”