In Rivers State, tragedy has struck once more as a middle-aged man, Udeme, is feared dead following the collapse of a two-storey building under construction in the Egbelu Mgbaraja area of Ogbogoro Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
This incident comes just a week after a three-storey building at the Iriebe axis collapsed, although fortunately, no lives were lost then.
Witnesses reported that the building gave way on November 4, around 2 p.m. while contractors were working on the second floor. One worker is believed to have been killed, while another was severely injured in the accident. Eyewitness Jonathan Obey suggested that the collapse may have stemmed from deliberate infractions by the property developer, citing the use of substandard materials and inadequate foundation as key factors.
Obey disclosed: “The foundation was only three feet deep for a two-storey structure, which is insufficient. They used low-quality rods, and the decking wasn’t properly reinforced—it lacked a center beam that was essential for structural integrity.”
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In response to the tragedy, the Rivers State Government has sealed off the site of the collapsed building and declared the property developer, Vincent Nwoye, wanted for questioning regarding the incident. Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Evans Bipi, accused Nwoye of gross negligence and violating building regulations, highlighting that the developer failed to secure a government-approved building plan and used inadequate materials.
“We’ve issued repeated warnings about the dangers of constructing without an approved plan,” Bipi stated. “This developer will serve as a cautionary tale for others.” He also expressed sympathy for the victim’s family and the Ogbogoro community, promising that the remains of the deceased will be taken to a mortuary for identification.
The Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr. Samuel Anya, also expressed his sorrow, condemning the reckless practices of the property developer, who he said prioritized profit over the safety of workers and future residents. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for stringent adherence to building regulations to prevent further tragedies.
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