Death toll in Uyo church building collapse hits 29

The number of people who died in Saturday’s collapsed Reigners Bible Church building in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom capital, has risen to 29, according to the state Police Commissioner, Mr Murtala Mani.

 It was earlier reported that 27 died as at Sunday, while 37 persons, who suffered various degrees of injury, were receiving treatment at designated hospitals. The latest figure shows that 35 injured persons are currently receiving treatment, but other sources had put the number of deaths at over 100. The Police Commissioner said: “The remaining 35 persons are responding to treatment.” Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State government has described as shocking and sad, the unfortunate incident of the collapse of Reigners Bible Church building in Uyo. A statement by the state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr Jonathan Obuebite, lamented that the monumental tragedy which claimed many lives and injured many others came at a time when Christians were preparing to celebrate another Christmas. He said: “As sad as the incident was, we cannot question the Almighty but to obey His word which says in all things we should give Him thanks. “We are deeply touched by the sad event in which Governor Udom Emmanuel and some members of the state executive council narrowly escaped death alongside others.” Also, founder of Reigners’ Bible Church, Apostle Akan Weeks, has denounced the bishopric ordination and apologised for what has happened to his followers. Apostle Weeks, who featured on a live local radio station, Planet FM, from his hospital bed at an undisclosed location, said: “Let nobody believe the speculation that I was consecrated as a bishop. “The consecration was cancelled completely and I am not interested in it again. I am more interested in the souls of the people I have laboured for, to bring to God over the years since my tender age. I am very sorry and sympathise with all the families. Please, we should rise and pray together, we will win the battle. “The incident that happened on Saturday during my bishopric enthronement is unfortunate. I call to say that God is still on the throne. Only God knows best and nobody can question Him.”