
A somber atmosphere enveloped a popular hotel in Umuahia as tragedy struck on Thursday afternoon, claiming the life of a young artisan identified as Bright Okon. The 24-year-old met his untimely demise after falling from a ladder while carrying out repair works within the premises.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident occurred around 12:30 pm as Okon diligently executed his tasks in a section of the hotel. A sudden slip caused him to plummet from the ladder, resulting in a severe head injury that rendered him unconscious.
Frantic efforts were made by hotel staff to rush Okon to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Umuahia for urgent medical attention. However, despite the best efforts of medical personnel, he was tragically pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Conflicting accounts emerged regarding the circumstances surrounding Okon's death, with some sources suggesting that he may have been electrocuted while working on electrical installations within the hotel premises.
In response to the incident, the management of the hotel promptly alerted the Central Police Station (CPS) in Umuahia, prompting police officials to visit the scene and commence investigations.
When approached for comment, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Abia State Police Command, ASP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed the tragic incident. However, she refrained from providing detailed information, stating that investigations were ongoing.
As the community mourns the loss of Bright Okon, questions linger about the safety measures in place at workplaces and the need for heightened vigilance to prevent such accidents in the future. The incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks faced by artisans and workers in various industries, underscoring the importance of prioritizing occupational safety and welfare.
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