Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has approved the constitution of a panel of inquiry to investigate the cause of the reoccurring collapse of buildings in the state with the objective to finding a lasting solution.
This move follows a recent tragic incidents involving the collapse of two buildings within Onitsha metropolis—Lockup shops at OduIgbo, Ochanja and the fall of Centenary building at Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) Onitsha, the commercial city of the state.
A statement from the government signed by Ernest Ezeajughi, the Chief of Staff, said the panel will be chaired by Engr Victor Meju, Chairman COREN Anambra State Chapter, while Arc. Ikenna Eboh, Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) Anambra State Chapter, and TPL Nwofor Obiora, Chairman, Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP)Anambra State Chapter are members.
Other members are Surv. Gabriel Okeke, Chairman Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors Anambra State Chapter, Bldr. Kingsley Nweke, Chairman Nigerian Institute of Builders (NIOB) Anambra State Chapter, MD/CEO Anambra State Material Testing Laboratory, Prof. Ezeagu Akaolisa, Chairman Institute of Structural Engineers, while Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing Anambra State will be Secretary of the Committee.
Ezeajughi said the committee is tasked with the objective of conducting a comprehensive investigation into the collapse of Lockup shops at OduIgbo Ochanja and the centenary building at DMGS, Onitsha.
He also said the findings and recommendations of the panel will serve as a basis for corrective actions and policy reforms to enhance building safety and standards in the State.
