Anambra govt to test student hostels in  Oko, vows to prosecute owner of collapsed building 

By Ifeizu Joe

The Anambra State government says it will embark on test for structural integrity assessment of all commercial buildings within Oko and Amaokpala to ascertain their durability.

This followed the collapse of a three-storey building in Amaokpala, as well as other such 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 mourning over the tragic incident and extended 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 has been sealed pending a full and thorough investigation, and that government would not look back in ensuring prosecution of those whose negligence led to the ugly incident.

He said preliminary assessments point to structural failure as the likely cause of the collapse, insisting that this was a fact that was known to the owners and management of the building yet they put monetary gain over and 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 shall conduct a compulsory review and structural integrity tests on all buildings within the proximity of the collapsed building.

Mr. Ojukwu announced that the State Government shall take decisive steps, inclusive of the revocation of the right of occupancy of the parcel of land housing the building 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 will 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 will 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.