by Jewel Stephen

The South African government has said that 67 of its citizens were killed in the building collapse which occurred at the Synagogue Church of All Nations (SCOAN) last Friday.

Speaking on Tuesday, South African President, Jacob Zuma, said; “I am greatly saddened to announce that 67 South Africans died and scores of others sustained injuries.

“This is a particularly difficult time for South Africa. Not in the recent history of our country have we had this large number of our people die in one incident outside the country.

“Our thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues that have lost their loved ones in this heart-breaking tragedy. The whole nation shares the pain of the mothers, fathers, daughters and sons who have lost their loved ones. We are all in grief,” Zuma said.

Zuma said he had directed relevant government departments and entities to act with the utmost urgency to ensure that the presidency facilitate the movement of relevant family members to Nigeria, to identify the bodies. He added that the government would provide all the necessary support to affected families.

He also sent condolences to the people of Nigeria and all other nations affected by this tragedy on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa.

The death toll of the incident has risen to 57 as reported by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) on Tuesday morning.

Emmanuel Chidiogo