by Dennis Naku
The Rivers State Government has launched an investigation into the collapse of a three-storey building under construction at the Iriebe area of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
Construction work was ongoing on the third floor of the building when it caved in early Tuesday morning.
Following the incident, the Chairman of Obio/Akpor LGA, Chijioke Ihunwo, ordered the site closed during an on-the-spot visit.
However, on Thursday, the state government revealed that the building lacked proper approval and vowed to take action against both the property owner and the overseeing engineer.
The State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi, stated this during a site inspection alongside officials from the Greater Port Harcourt City Development Authority and ministry directors.
Bipi noted that, although no lives were lost, it was unfortunate that the building had no government approval, a requirement to ensure structural integrity and safety.
“As a government representative, I’m here on behalf of the Governor, and it saddens me that people continue building without government approval,” Bipi said. “We’re grateful no lives were lost, but we must investigate to identify the engineer and property owner and confirm whether approval was granted.”
Bipi expressed concern that initial findings showed substandard materials were used, suggesting that further investigation would reveal those responsible.
“You can see the poor quality of materials used in this building,” he observed. “There’s more sand than cement, leading to a dangerous lack of structural stability. The rods used are also substandard.”
He urged property owners and developers to obtain approved building plans from the ministry, enabling regular inspections to ensure compliance with building standards and specifications.
“If you want to build to standard, all specifications must be met,” Bipi stated.