Five Family Members Die as Concrete Water Reservoir Collapses on Home in Awgu AWGU, ENUGU STATE — Tragedy struck Umuike-Aja Village in Nenwenta Community, Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State, after a concrete water reservoir attached to an uncompleted building collapsed onto a neighbouring residential building, killing five members of the same family. The incident reportedly occurred at about 5:45 a.m. on September 18, 2026, while the affected family was asleep. According to the Enugu State Police Command, the victims were identified as Raphael Onwu, his wife, his mother and their two children. The concrete reservoir, which was constructed on the adjoining uncompleted building, reportedly collapsed onto the family’s home, trapping the occupants beneath the debris. Police operatives from the Awgu Division, with support from officials of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and members of the local community, responded to the scene. During the rescue operation, a nine-year-old boy was rescued alive and taken to a hospital, where he is currently receiving medical attention. The five other victims were subsequently recovered from the collapsed structure and rushed to the hospital, where they were confirmed dead. Their remains have since been deposited at a mortuary for preservation and autopsy. Police Launch Investigation Following the tragedy, the Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse. The police also arrested the owner of the building on which the concrete reservoir was constructed, identified as Nkwo Onyedikachi Geoffrey, in connection with the incident. The Command stated that the outcome of the investigation would determine the appropriate further action. While commiserating with the bereaved family and the affected community, CP Giwa urged residents to avoid unsafe construction practices and adhere strictly to approved building and safety standards. He further encouraged property owners to engage qualified professionals in the design and construction of buildings and associated structures to prevent avoidable loss of lives. The police statement was signed by the Enugu State Police Command Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, and dated September 24, 2026. De Accolade Magazine extends its condolences to the bereaved family and the people of Nenwenta Community over the tragic loss.