The Rivers State Government has pledged to seal all inadequately constructed structures that lack proper approvals across the state, following a recent collapse of a three-storey building under construction on Abacha Road in Port Harcourt. While there were no casualties in this latest incident, it follows another three-storey building collapse just days prior, which resulted in one death and two injuries in the Ogbogoro Community of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
In response to these incidents, the Rivers State Government announced the formation of a task force dedicated to curbing building collapses and ensuring public safety. State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi, revealed this initiative during an inspection of the collapsed site on Abacha Road on Friday. He ordered an immediate sealing of the location.
Commissioner Bipi indicated that the task force would strictly oversee all ongoing construction projects to ensure that developers follow the state’s building regulations and laws, aiming to prevent further structural failures. He attributed the recent collapse to severe breaches of the approved building plan, alleging that the developer used substandard materials to construct a three-storey building in a waterlogged area.
Bipi urged Rivers State residents planning construction projects to consult the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development for proper guidance and to secure necessary approvals. He stated, “The ministry will, of course, guide you on whether a three-storey or two-storey building is feasible. We have established this task force to ensure full compliance with state building regulations.”
Through these measures, the Rivers State Government intends to enhance construction standards, prioritizing safety for residents and deterring non-compliant developments.
