JUST IN: Fubara Orders Immediate Closure of Collapsed Building Site in Rivers

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has ordered the immediate closure of the building site on Peter Odili Road, Port Harcourt, following the collapse of the structure.

The directive came after the governor personally visited the scene on Friday to assess the extent of the damage and ongoing rescue efforts.

The building collapse has sparked serious concerns over safety compliance and construction standards in the state, especially as emergency responders continue search and rescue operations at the site.

Reacting to the incident, Fubara described the collapse as a painful and unfortunate tragedy, stressing that the situation could have been prevented if proper standards had been followed.

“Yesterday, I visited the site of the collapsed building on Peter Odili Road. It was indeed an unfortunate incident that could have been avoided,” the governor said.

Fubara disclosed that the state government has now moved to seal off the area to allow for a full investigation into what led to the collapse.

He stated that no activity would continue at the site until authorities conclude their findings and determine responsibility.

“As rescue operations are ongoing, I have ordered the immediate closure of the site pending proper investigations.”

The governor also raised concerns over alleged disregard for regulatory oversight by those handling the construction project.

According to him, state authorities had reportedly made several attempts to inspect and monitor the project to ensure compliance with approved safety and construction guidelines.

However, those efforts were allegedly ignored.

“I understand that several efforts by the State regulatory authority to monitor the project to ensure conformity with standards were waved off. Our concerns were never about interference, but about safeguarding lives and ensuring adherence to construction regulations and standards.”

Fubara said the incident highlights the dangers of ignoring professional building standards and safety procedures.

He expressed sadness over the loss of lives and injuries recorded from the collapse, noting that such disasters should not happen under proper supervision.

“We are deeply touched by the loss of human lives, as such misfortune should not have occurred in modern times when professional standards and safety measures are expected to guide construction activities.”

The governor extended condolences to families who lost loved ones in the incident and sympathised with those receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the collapse.

He assured residents that his administration remains committed to strengthening enforcement of building regulations to prevent similar tragedies in the future.