By Alufo Bonaventure
The Anambra State Government on June 12 demolished the remaining section of a three-storey building that collapsed while under construction at Umuoma Village, Umuoji, in Idemili North Local Government Area.
The demolition exercise was supervised by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke O. Ojukwu, who attributed the incident to the developer’s failure to comply with statutory building regulations and approval procedures.
Addressing journalists at the site, Barr. Ojukwu stated that investigations revealed several breaches, including structural deficiencies, excessive development on the available plot size, and violations of approved setback requirements.
“This unfortunate incident underscores the consequences of disregarding established building regulations. The structure was found to be structurally defective, grossly disproportionate to the size of the plot, and in violation of setback requirements. Multiple infractions were identified, and such outcomes are inevitable when due process is ignored,” he said.
The commissioner emphasized the importance of strict compliance with building regulations, noting that construction activities directly affect public safety. He expressed gratitude that no lives were lost in the collapse and disclosed that the state government was considering amendments to existing laws to criminalize building construction carried out without valid approvals and permits.
Barr. Ojukwu further revealed that the government would propose the forfeiture of properties where building collapses occur due to regulatory violations. According to him, the measure, already practiced in some states, would be incorporated into Anambra’s legal framework upon legislative approval.
He warned that property owners who violate development regulations would face severe sanctions, including substantial fines and the continued sealing of affected sites until all penalties are settled and necessary approvals obtained.
The commissioner also reiterated the commitment of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration to ongoing urban renewal initiatives across the state. He disclosed that the government remains focused on delivering key infrastructure projects, including a central bus terminal, a recreational centre, a fruit market, and the completion of the long-abandoned Nnewi Mall.
According to him, similar urban regeneration projects would subsequently be extended to Onitsha, including the development of a central bus terminal, an Onitsha Mall, and the revitalization of the Main Market before the end of the year.
Speaking on the state’s “Operation Zero Shanties” programme, Barr. Ojukwu noted that strict enforcement of urban planning laws and regeneration efforts were essential to creating cleaner, healthier, and more aesthetically appealing cities.
He urged prospective developers to obtain the necessary permits and engage qualified professionals before commencing construction projects, stressing that adherence to approved standards remains the most effective way to prevent future building failures. Following the demolition exercise, government officials sealed off the site pending further regulatory actions.
Alufo Bonaventure is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
#Ministryofinformation
#Anambraisrising
#Informationiskey
#Solutionishere
#Solutioncontinues
