Building Collapses in Nnewi as Anambra Govt Orders Safety Checks

A two-storey residential building has collapsed at Inyaba-Umudim in Nnewi North Local Government Area of Anambra State, with no loss of life reported. The incident occurred on Sunday and was confirmed on Monday by the state Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Chijioke Ojukwu, who visited the site for an assessment. Ojukwu described the collapse as unfortunate but expressed relief that no fatality had been recorded. He said the affected structure was poorly constructed and had been erected without the required approval from the ministry. According to him, the building was constructed on the perimeter wall of an existing three-storey building in the same compound. The commissioner said occupants of the nearby three-storey structure would be evacuated as a safety precaution and to allow authorities to conduct an integrity assessment.

Ojukwu further disclosed that buildings within the surrounding area would undergo mandatory integrity tests, with structures found to be unsafe facing demolition. He warned that the state government would embark on statewide demolition of buildings constructed on perimeter fences of existing structures, those that violate required setback regulations and those erected without the necessary approvals. The commissioner said the measures were aimed at preventing further building failures and protecting residents. Authorities are expected to continue assessments of structures in the affected area as part of the state's efforts to enforce building standards and improve public safety.

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