A three-storey building under construction in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State collapsed on Saturday, leaving seven people injured.
Rivers Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mr. Evans Bipi, confirmed the incident in a statement issued on Sunday through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Emeka Idika.
According to the commissioner, quick intervention by his ministry, the Ministry of Special Duties, and other rescue teams helped to prevent fatalities, as all victims were swiftly taken to the hospital for medical care.
“It is unfortunate that we are beginning the year with this tragic incident. Though no life was lost, this is the 4th building collapse we are witnessing in the state since I assumed office,” Mr. Bipi stated.
Preliminary investigations suggest the use of substandard materials contributed to the collapse, the commissioner revealed.
“Specifically, the use of 12mm rods for decking a building is a clear violation of construction standards. Unfortunately, this is not an isolated incident, as similar cases in the state had been linked to the same cause,” he explained.
The property has been sealed, pending a detailed investigation into the incident.
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