Another tragedy has unfolded in Rivers State, Nigeria, as a middle-aged man named Udeme is feared dead following the collapse of a two-storey building under construction at the Egbelu Mgbaraja axis in Ogbogoro Community, located in the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
This incident occurred on Monday, November 4, 2024, around 2 p.m., just one week after a separate building collapse in the same local government area, although that previous incident resulted in no fatalities.
Eyewitness accounts have shed light on the circumstances surrounding the collapse. Mr. Jonathan Obey, who was present at the scene, reported that the structure caved in while contractors were working on the second floor.
One worker was killed, while another narrowly escaped with severe injuries. Eyewitnesses attempted to rescue the trapped individual but were unable to do so, highlighting the urgent need for emergency response efforts.
Investigations into the incident have pointed to several deliberate infractions by the property developer that may have contributed to the building’s collapse.
Obey revealed serious shortcomings in the construction process, stating, “When we first came, we tried to rescue the person, but we couldn’t. Upon investigation, we found out that substandard materials were used in the project. The foundation was only 3 feet deep for a two-storey building, which is inadequate.”
Furthermore, the eyewitness indicated that several structural elements were either missing or subpar. “Some of the rods used by the builders were of low quality; the decking itself was not properly secured with chains, and there was no center beam.
It was supposed to have a center beam and a pillar in the middle, but it doesn’t have that. They did not use enough cement in casting the first decking,” he explained, underscoring a pattern of negligence in construction standards.
In response to the tragedy, the Rivers State Government has taken immediate action by sealing off the premises of the collapsed building. Additionally, the property developer, identified as Vincent Nwoye, has been declared wanted for his alleged role in the incident.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Evans Bipi, conducted an on-the-spot inspection of the site and strongly criticized Nwoye for gross negligence and failure to adhere to the building laws and regulations established in Rivers State.
Bipi emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “We have repeatedly warned that if you are caught building without a government-approved building plan, you will certainly face the penalty.”
The commissioner reiterated that the use of substandard materials and the lack of proper planning were major factors leading to the tragedy, which could have been avoided with adherence to safety regulations.
As the search for the trapped individual continues, the community mourns the loss and calls for stricter enforcement of building regulations to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The collapse has raised significant concerns about construction practices in the region, sparking discussions among residents about the safety and integrity of ongoing building projects in their neighborhoods.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of neglecting construction standards and the vital importance of regulatory oversight to safeguard lives.
