On Tuesday, June 18, 2024, Anglican Bishops from the Province of the Niger made a sympathy visit to the Diocese on the Niger following the tragic collapse of the Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) Centenary Building in Onitsha, Anambra State. The bishops described the incident as a deeply unfortunate experience.
During the visit, the bishops emphasized the need for the church to be protected, respected, and dignified. They called on the government to fulfill its responsibilities and work in collaboration with the church. The delegation, led by the Archbishop of the Province, Most Rev. Dr. Alexander Ibezim, Bishop of Awka Diocese, arrived at the site of the collapse at 9 am and conducted extensive prayers.
In his speech following the prayers, Archbishop Ibezim expressed the deep sorrow felt by the House of Bishops and their parishioners and their decision to commiserate with the diocese. He emphasized that divine intervention prevented the disaster from being more severe. “It could have been a tragedy because many lives could have been lost. But God is with His people; He did not allow the wishes of our enemies to come to pass,” said Ibezim. He noted that the minimal loss of life was a testament to God’s miraculous presence and called for thanksgiving services across all churches.
Archbishop Ibezim assured the Diocese on the Niger of the province’s support during this difficult time, encouraging Bishop Owen Nwokolo and the entire diocese with words of faith and solidarity.
In response, Bishop Nwokolo, on behalf of the diocese, the Old Boys, and current students of DMGS, expressed profound gratitude to the bishops for their solidarity and support. He announced the formation of a panel to investigate the causes of the building collapse. The nine-member panel, composed of experts in building, construction, societal management, and law, includes:
– Hon. Justice Pete Obiora (Justice of the Appeal Court of Nigeria) as Chairman
– Barr. Sir Andy Obianwu: Secretary
– Arc. Sir Shed Onwuasonya: Member
– Dr. Azuka Onweluzo: Member
– Engr. Ofodile Anieto: Member
– Arc. Peter Okpala: Member
– Sur. Samuel Akabogu: Member
– Engr. Chukwunonso Igboka: Member
– Arc. Kingsley Ibekwe: Member
The panel’s terms of reference include examining the administrative and technical processes followed during construction, ensuring building plans met expected standards, verifying if proper approvals were obtained, and confirming that the building was designed and supervised by qualified professionals. The panel has one month to submit its report, with the possibility of an extension if needed.
Bishop Nwokolo commended the panel members for their credibility and expertise, expressing confidence in their ability to uncover the truth behind the collapse.
