The Anambra State Government says it will embark on structural integrity tests on all commercial buildings within Oko and Amaokpala to ascertain their safety and durability.
This follows the collapse of a three-storey building in Amaokpala, as well as other similar incidents recorded within Orumba North Local Government Area.
In a public statement signed by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Chijioke Ojukwu, the ministry expressed deep sorrow over the tragic incident, extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, and prayed for the full and speedy recovery of the injured persons who were rescued and are receiving medical care.
Mr. Ojukwu stated that the site of the collapsed structure had been sealed pending a full and thorough investigation, adding that the government would not relent in ensuring the prosecution of those whose negligence led to the incident.
He said preliminary assessments point to structural failure as the likely cause of the collapse, insisting that this was a fact known to the owners and management of the building, yet they placed monetary gain above the safety of the occupants.
The commissioner disclosed that a comprehensive technical investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the collapse.
He added that the state government has received actionable intelligence regarding other potentially distressed buildings in the same area.
Accordingly, the ministry will conduct a compulsory review and structural integrity tests on all buildings within the vicinity of the collapsed building.
Mr. Ojukwu announced that the state government would take decisive steps, including the revocation of the right of occupancy of the parcel of land on which the building stands and the prosecution of anyone whose action or inaction may have contributed to the unfortunate incident.
He reaffirmed the ministry’s unwavering commitment to the strict enforcement of physical planning regulations, building codes and safety standards across Anambra State.
The commissioner said the ministry would continue to work closely with the Anambra State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Anambra State Fire Service, the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant agencies.
Property owners, developers and landlords have been reminded of their legal and moral responsibility to ensure that all buildings comply with approved plans, structural standards and safety regulations.
Mr. Ojukwu warned that the government would not hesitate to take firm action against any person or entity found to have compromised building safety through negligence, substandard construction or non-compliance with planning laws.
Members of the public have been urged to remain calm, avoid the sealed site and refrain from spreading unverified information that could hinder ongoing operations or cause unnecessary distress.
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