Experts demand strict action, as two buildings collapse in Abia

The Nigerian Institute of Building, Abia State chapter, has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of professional standards and building regulations following the collapse of two buildings in Osisioma Local Government Area of Abia State.

The buildings, which were at an advanced stage of completion, collapsed at New Jerusalem Road 8 and Eze Iheme Road, by Ama Uchenna Mgboko, Umuette Okpulo Umuobo, in Osisioma Ngwa LGA of the state. No life was lost in either incident.

Speaking on Saturday after inspecting the sites of the collapsed buildings, members of the Nigerian Institute of Building advocated stronger measures to prevent structural failures.

The Chairman of the Practice Committee of the Institute, Wisdom Okore, described the recurring incidents of building collapse in different parts of the country as a serious concern that requires coordinated action by government, regulatory agencies and professionals across the construction industry.

He said sustained capacity building through regular workshops, training programmes and professional development would strengthen compliance with established standards and improve the quality of building production processes.

According to him, registered professional builders have the statutory responsibility of coordinating and managing building production from conception to completion in line with recognised professional standards and regulatory requirements.

Okore also urged the Abia State Government to strengthen the implementation of the National Building Code and the Abia State Physical Planning and Development Regulations, noting that effective enforcement of existing provisions would reduce structural failures.

He expressed gratitude that no lives were lost in either of the incidents, describing the outcome as fortunate while sympathising with those whose properties were affected.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Building, Abia State Chapter, Mr Chinedu Nwanosike, called on all professionals engaged in the building industry to uphold ethical standards and comply with approved construction procedures.