Building Collapse in Cape Coast Leaves One Dead and Another Hospitalized

A building collapse in Cape Coast has killed one and left another hospitalized. The incident occurred in the family home of Allotey Jacobs around 2:00 AM. Mayor Justice Arthur has ordered a demolition of nearby dilapidated structures as relief efforts begin. Community leaders stress the importance of maintaining buildings to prevent future tragedies.

A tragic incident occurred in Cape Coast where a building collapse resulted in one fatality and left another person hospitalized. The structure in question was the family home of Allotey Jacobs, a former Central Regional Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). The one-story mud house in Amisakyir, a coastal fishing community, collapsed around 2:00 AM while its occupants were asleep, trapping two individuals beneath the debris.

This latest collapse marks the second such event in the region within a week. Emergency responders, including personnel from the National Disaster Management Organisation (NADMO), the Police, and the Fire Service, rapidly arrived at the scene and managed to rescue the trapped individuals. They were promptly transported to the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital for urgent medical attention.

Among the victims was 74-year-old Ernestina Nduom, also known as Maame Frema, who was unfortunately pronounced dead shortly after arrival at the hospital. Her 18-year-old grandson, Frederick, remains hospitalized as he continues to receive treatment for his injuries.

Mayor Justice George Arthur arrived at the site shortly after the collapse, having been alerted by the local Assembly member. He recounted witnessing the two individuals trapped under the wreckage and notifying the relevant authorities for assistance. Arthur took the initiative to visit the hospital and support the victims with their medical expenses and welfare.

Reflecting on the tragedy, Mayor Arthur stated, “It is indeed pathetic,” after having to deliver the heartbreaking news of Madam Nduom’s passing to her family. Following discussions with affected residents and inspection of other derelict buildings in the area, the Mayor scheduled a demolition operation for additional flammable structures nearby.

“We are embarking on a massive demolition exercise,” he said, indicating that four dilapidated buildings had already been demolished, with plans for approximately seven more. These actions aim to prevent further tragedies in the future.

In the meantime, the distressed family expressed grief and requested support from authorities during their time of mourning. Additionally, Justice Nana Kwasi Agyemang from the NADMO communication team emphasized the importance of regular maintenance in preventing such disasters. “Building owners often neglect their homes,” he noted, “which can lead to catastrophic outcomes.”

As the residents of the affected structures worked to salvage their possessions, they consented to the upcoming demolition but urged for assistance from the government and NADMO. Samuel Essel, the Regional NADMO Public Relations Officer, also called on the public to contribute relief items to support the rescue and recovery efforts.

In a show of solidarity, Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II, the Paramount Chief of the Oguaa Traditional area, visited the scene of the incident to offer condolences to the affected families and assess the damage firsthand.

The recent building collapse in Cape Coast serves as a grave reminder of the risks associated with poorly maintained structures. With one life lost and another in critical condition, local authorities have mobilized resources for relief and initiated demolition efforts to remove further hazards. Community leaders stress the need for ongoing maintenance of homes to prevent more tragedies. As the affected families grieve, they are also calling for support from government agencies and organizations.

Original Source: mobile.ghanaweb.com