A yet-to-be-identified building developer has been declared wanted by the Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi, over the collapse of a building in the state, News About Nigeria reports.
A two-storey building under construction collapsed on Monday in the Egbelu Mgbaraja area of Ogbogoro Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, killing one person and leaving another severely injured.
This is reportedly the second building collapse in the area within a week.
The Commissioner, reacting to this incident, declared the developer wanted for negligence. He stated that the construction was carried out without government approval and with substandard materials.
He also sealed the site, maintaining that the developer will face the consequences for causing the loss of life. Bipi further expressed sympathy to the victim’s family, stating that the remains would be kept at a mortuary, which would be publicly disclosed for family access.
He stated, “We’ve made it clear that if you build without approval, you will face the consequences.
“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 unacceptable. We must use him as an example. This incident must serve as a warning to those building without government approval.”
An eyewitness, Jonathan Obey, stated that the building had given way while construction workers were on the second floor, tragically claiming the life of a young man identified only as Udeme from Akwa Ibom State. Another worker narrowly escaped death but sustained serious injuries.
Obey blamed the incident on the use of substandard materials, describing the foundation and supports as inadequate.
