A two-story building under construction collapsed in the Egbelu Mgbaraja neighborhood of Ogbogoro Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, on Monday, resulting in one fatality and serious injuries to another worker.
The incident occurred around 2:00 p.m., marking the second building collapse in the region within two days.
Eyewitness Jonathan Obey recounted the events, stating that a young man from Akwa Ibom State, known only as Udeme, tragically lost his life when the structure fell while construction workers were on the second floor.
Another worker sustained severe injuries but managed to survive. Obey attributed the collapse to inadequate foundations and the use of substandard materials.
“When we arrived, we noticed that inferior materials were used in the construction. The building’s foundation was intended for a two-story structure, yet low-quality rods and insufficient cement were employed. The decking lacked a central pillar and beam, which ultimately led to the collapse,” Obey explained.
Following the incident, Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi, visited the site and ordered its closure, declaring the developer wanted. Bipi criticized the developer’s negligence, asserting that construction occurred without proper approval and with inferior materials.
“We’ve made it clear that if you build without approval, you will face the consequences,” Bipi stated. “This site is sealed, and the developer has been declared wanted. He must answer for using substandard materials that led to the loss of life. This is not acceptable. We have to make an example of him.”
In a statement released by his media assistant, Emeka Idika Kalu, Bipi expressed condolences to the victim’s family, announcing that the remains would be placed in a morgue for family viewing.
“This incident must serve as a warning to those building without government approval,” he added.
Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties, Samuel Anya, also expressed shock over the incident, condemning the developer’s choice to prioritize profit over safety.
“This is heartbreaking. Not only was the building of poor quality, but it also lacked proper approval.
“Someone has now paid the price with his life. The owner and engineer responsible must be held accountable as the government prioritizes the safety of lives,” Anya asserted.
