The Rivers State Government has begun an investigation into the collapse of part of a three-storey building that was under construction in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area. The incident happened along Slaughter Road, off Aker Road on Iwofe Road in the Rumuolumeni Community, where a section of the structure reportedly crumbled from the upper floor downwards.
Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident. Reports indicated that construction workers had already left the site before the collapse occurred. However, the event caused concern among residents and passers-by, many of whom gathered to see the extent of the damage.
Officials and security personnel later arrived at the location to monitor the situation, while authorities restricted access to the affected area. Although some residents suggested that the use of poor-quality materials may have played a role, officials said investigations would determine the actual cause of the building collapse.
Confirming the development, the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Gift Worlu, through his Press Secretary, Goodluck Nsirim, said the council immediately responded after receiving a distress call. According to him, engineers were deployed to carry out an initial assessment of the site.
“Yesterday at about 11:30 am, we got a call from a passer-by who witnessed the collapse of a high-rise building around Akar Junction in the Rumuolumeni axis. Immediately, we sent out a team of engineers to the location,” he said.
Nsirim explained that officials initially faced challenges accessing the premises because the property owner did not open the gate promptly. He added that the Rivers State Ministry of Urban Development later gained entry and secured the site.
“Later, the Ministry of Urban Development came and gained access into the site and cordoned off the entire area. As I speak to you, I can assure you that investigations are ongoing at the local government level to ascertain the cause of the collapse,” Nsirim stated.
He also warned developers against dealing with fake officials who issue fraudulent approvals. He stressed that developers must follow proper procedures and obtain all required permits before starting any construction project.
“We have always advised developers to be wary of fake council officials who pretend to be making things easier for them regarding statutory levies. People should follow due process in obtaining the necessary approvals because cutting corners will always come with regrets at the end of the day,” he said.
The council assured residents that findings from the building collapse investigation would help prevent future incidents and strengthen compliance with building regulations across the area. The building collapse investigation remains ongoing, while authorities continue efforts to improve safety standards in the construction sector.
