Mary Onyia
Pain and grief gripped members of the Salvation Ministry in Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State, as over ten persons reportedly died, leaving scores of others with various degree of injuries after the building housing the Church collapsed at about 6:00pm on Tuesday during a Church service.
According to reports the building collapsed following what seemed like a thunderous noise while worshippers were at service observing the yearly fasting and prayer.
Following the collapse, over 35 persons, including children and women have been rescued, while four persons have been rushed to the Asaba Specialist Hospital for medical attention.
Some of the worshippers, family members and sympathisers were seen crying and praying as efforts were on to rescue other victims.
Confirming the tragic incident, Delta State Police Spokesman, Edafe Bright, said 18 persons have so far been rescued, dismissing reports that casualties were recorded.
According to residents of the area, the building, which is over 10 years was initially designed as a plaza before the church bought it over.