A two-story building under construction collapsed on Monday in Egbelu Mgbaraja, Ogbogoro Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, resulting in one death and leaving another person seriously injured. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. and marks the second building collapse in the area within a week.
Eyewitness Jonathan Obey reported that the building gave way while workers were on the second floor, tragically claiming the life of a young man named Udeme from Akwa Ibom State. Another worker narrowly escaped but sustained severe injuries. Obey attributed the collapse to the use of substandard materials, pointing out flaws in the foundation and support structures. “When we arrived, it was evident that low-quality materials were used. The building lacked a central pillar and adequate beams, 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, ordered it sealed, and declared the developer wanted. Bipi condemned the developer’s negligence, noting that construction was conducted without government approval and with poor-quality materials. “If you build without approval, you will face the consequences. The site is now sealed, and the developer must answer for using substandard materials that cost a life,” Bipi stated.
Bipi further warned that the government would take strict action to prevent such incidents. “This is unacceptable. We will make an example of this case,” he added. In a statement by his media aide, Emeka Idika Kalu, Bipi expressed condolences to the victim’s family, announcing that the remains would be held at a mortuary for family access.
The Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties, Samuel Anya, also condemned the incident, expressing sorrow over the loss and criticizing the developer’s disregard for safety. “This is heartbreaking. Not only was the construction substandard, but it also lacked proper approval. A life has now been lost because of these oversights. The developer and the engineer responsible must be held accountable as we prioritize the safety of lives,” Anya said.
