Gov. Rochas visits scene of Owerri building collapse (Photos)

 Gov Rochas Okorocha has visited the scene of the building collapse in Imo state that reportedly claimed the lives of two children and many others

According to online reports, two corps members and 40 – year -old man simply identified as Anoruo, who were trapped in the building when it collapsed are in coma and doctors at the police clinic, Owerri, battling to save their lives.

Imo state Governor, Rochas Okorocha who visited the crime scene with his Chief of staff and In-law, Uche Nwosu, while speaking, advised those who want to build to engage the services of professionals and ensure the use of quality materials, and equally advised that people should stop building on dredges, gutters and even sucker-ways.
    “I was shocked to hear of this building collapse around this area of the city, precisely along stadium and Egbu road. In this disaster, six people were rescued while four persons were confirmed dead. I learnt that Owerri Capital Development Authority has initially sealed this structure against further work but the landlord stubbornly carried on with the construction, adding an additional floor to existing storey building”.

    “The next building I understand is owned by the same landlord suffers the same fate. So, I have ordered that the two buildings go down without delay to safeguard against further occurrence and also to serve as a deferent to overzealous landlords and contractors who are involved in this type of mess”.

    “Government henceforth will setup building departments separate from OCDA for standards and regulation. Qualified Engineers are henceforth to sample, test and supervise every structure and their construction in the city and suburbs.

    We as a government can no longer fold our hands and watch landlords and unqualified engineers waste or endanger the lives of our people. All buildings must be inspected and given certification”.

According him,

    “Owerri, being the fastest growing city in Nigeria is a good development but that is no reason for our people to build anyhow or anywhere for safety reasons.

    One of the survivors lost a child and I commend the commissioner of Police and the Red Cross for their early intervention. Government will strive to see avenues to find the survivors a means of livelihood while we pray that God grants the dead victims a sweet repose”.

More photos below