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The Rivers State Government has denied approving the building plan for the five-storey structure that collapsed on Odili Road in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Edward Hart, said the building was approved by the Nigerian Housing Authority.
Hart noted that the state had recorded two building collapses within a week, including a three-storey building that caved in at Rumuelumeni in Port Harcourt.
“It is straightforward. When a building plan is approved, ensure you adhere strictly to the approved design. Do not deviate from it. As long as you follow the approved plan, use quality materials and engage qualified personnel, the building will remain structurally sound,” he said.
“This building that collapsed was approved by the Nigerian Housing Authority. They approved it and were even present at the site. I will go further to say that the recent incidents of building collapse call for an urgent review of activities in the construction sector.”
The commissioner attributed the recurring incidents to non-compliance with approved building plans and the use of substandard materials by some contractors and construction professionals.
“Even when there is compliance, you sometimes find that some engineers and supervisors involved in these projects use substandard materials during construction. This has remained a challenge despite ongoing monitoring efforts,” he stated.
According to Hart, the repeated collapse of buildings emphasises the need for stricter oversight and reforms within the construction industry.
He called for stronger collaboration between the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development and professional bodies in the building sector.
“This will require tighter control of the approval process to eliminate quacks, prevent the use of substandard materials, and ensure that only qualified personnel handle building projects. It will also require close and regular supervision by the ministry,” Hart said.
