A two-storey building under construction collapsed in the Egbelu Mgbaraja area of Ogbogoro Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State, on November 5, 2024, resulting in the death of one worker and leaving another severely injured. This incident marks the second building collapse in the area within just a week, raising urgent alarms about construction safety.

Witnesses reported that the building gave way around 2 p.m. while construction workers were on the second floor. A young man identified only as Udeme from Akwa Ibom State tragically lost his life in the collapse. Another worker narrowly escaped with serious injuries. Eyewitness Jonathan Obey pointed to the use of substandard materials as a key factor in the disaster, describing the foundation and structural supports as inadequate for a two-storey building.

“When we arrived at the scene, it was evident that low-quality materials had been used in construction. The foundation was insufficient for a two-storey structure, and the decking lacked proper central support,” Obey explained.

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In the wake of the tragedy, Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi, visited the collapse site, ordering it sealed and declaring the developer wanted for negligence. Bipi condemned the reckless actions of the developer, emphasizing that the construction was carried out without government approval and utilized substandard materials.

“We’ve made it clear that building without proper approval will have serious consequences. This site is sealed, and the developer must answer for the use of substandard materials that resulted in the loss of life,” Bipi asserted.

Bipi also extended condolences to the victim’s family, noting that the remains would be placed in a mortuary, the location of which would be made public for family access. He emphasized the need for stricter adherence to building regulations to prevent future tragedies.

Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties, Samuel Anya, echoed Bipi’s sentiments, expressing outrage over the developer’s negligence and the prioritization of profit over safety. “This is heartbreaking. The lack of proper oversight and the use of inferior materials have led to a loss of life that should have been avoided,” Anya stated.