Boy dies as Catholic church collapses during mass in Delta (updated)

St. Paul Catholic Church in Ugolo, Delta state, collapsed during morning mass on Sunday.

The Catholic church is located in Adagbrasa, Okpe local government area of the state.

An 11-year-old boy, Jerry Enukanerhirhe, has been reported dead while many worshipers are said to have sustained injuries.

The deceased is the son of former minority leader of Okpe LG, Jackson Enukanerhire.

“We are aware of the collapse of the Catholic church in Ogbe local government of the state,” Aniamaka Andrew, Delta police spokesperson, told TheCable.

“An 11-year-old boy named Jerry died as a result of the accident. Four persons have been hospitalised. The police is doing all we can to help the victims.”

Charles Aniagwu, chief press secretary to Delta state government, also confirmed the incident in a statement released on behalf of governor Ifeanyi Okowa.

He described the church collapse as “very sad and unfortunate”.

The statement read: “On behalf of the Government and people of Delta State, I commiserate with the family of the deceased and those injured, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Chairman of Okpe Local Government Council, Chief Julius Scott, the Orodje of Okpe, HRM, Orhue 1, Major Gen. Felix Mujakperuo (retd) and the entire Ugolo community in Okpe Kingdom over the unfortunate incidence.

“It is our prayer that the soul of the deceased will rest in peace, and that the injured will experience quick recovery.

“Our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with the people of Ugolo in Okpe Kingdom over this tragedy.”