A builder identified as Chizoba Aniefuna and his two sons have lost their lives in a building collapse which occurred at Egbu Umuenem, Otolo-Nnewi, Nnewi North local government area of Anambra State.
Eye witness said that the structure, a storey building with pent house was under construction when it collapsed.
He claimed that a relative of the builder, was trapped in the building but was later rescued and rushed to a nearby hospital.
When newsmen arrived the scene, manual labourers were seen on rescue mission as the excavator brought to rescue the victims broke down at the site.
The Anambra State chairman of Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), Engr. Victor Meju while speaking with journalists blamed the cause of the incident to use of substandard materials and non approval from relevant regulatory authorities.
He announced seal-off of the site, while the owner of the building, Chukwunafu Anamanjo will be invited for questioning to aid investigation.
“Poor foundation, poor concrete mixture, poor quality of materials, poor wearing cost capacity, nonconformity to standard, non approval from relevant regulatory authorities led to the avoidable tragedy,” he said.
Transition Committee Chairman of Nnewi North LGA, Engr. Obiora stressed for certified Engineers and other relevant personnel in the building sector, as well as monitoring teams to be consulted to ensure strict compliance to standards.
The site of the building collapse has become a Mecca of sort as large number of people rushed to scene inspire of heavy downpour.
