By Christian ABURIME
Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has expressed deep sadness over the tragic collapse of unapproved building at Odu-Igbo Market, Ochanja describing it as “tragic and an incident that was not supposed to happen.”
The governor who made the statement when he visited the site on emergency ordered the immediate demolition of the remaining structures to avoid further incidents. He announced that 26 individuals had been rescued and hospitalized, five casualties recorded, with rescue efforts ongoing to locate those still trapped under the rubbles.
He emphasized his commitment to tackling the issue of illegal constructions and impunity in the state, revealing that the collapsed building was erected by a private developer without government approval.
“The contractor at his own cost will come and put down the illegal buildings he erected here,” Governor Soludo declared. “They are all going to come down. My government did not approve of this building. We will redesign this area and build it properly.”
Governor Soludo went on to announce a series of measures to address the issue.
“All buildings constructed without proper approval will be brought down henceforth, including structures currently under construction at other markets.
“A comprehensive inventory of buildings in Anambra markets and public places will be conducted.
“Markets will undergo integrity tests to identify and remove potentially unsafe structures and individuals found responsible for illegal construction will face legal consequences, “the governor maintained.
He emphasized the importance of prioritizing public safety and vowed to eradicate “the impunity and lawlessness” surrounding unauthorized construction.
The governor stated, “We can’t afford to waste one life because of the greed of a few.”
He revealed further that the hospital bills of those receiving treatment would be undertaken by the government and expressed deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives
The event highlights the importance of adhering to construction regulations and the governor’s commitment to ensuring public safety in Anambra State.
Earlier, the Chairman of Ochanja Market, Mr. Bonaventure Mmuo, pledged to disseminate the governor’s message to all market leaders in the state.
The governor was accompanied to the site by various government officials, including the Chief of Staff to the governor, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi; Chief of Protocol, Mr. Chinedu Nwoye; Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Felix Odimegwu; Commissioner for Information, Sir Paul Nwosu; MD ANSIPPA, Mr. Mark Okoye; chairman, Anambra Urban Regeneration Council, Architect Mike Okonkwo; Special Adviser to the governor on markets, Evarist Ubah among others.
