A two-storey building under construction collapsed on Monday in the Egbelu Mgbaraja area of Ogbogoro Community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Rivers State. The tragic incident, which occurred around 2 p.m., killed one worker, identified as Udeme from Akwa Ibom State, and left another seriously injured. This marks the second building collapse in the area within a week.

Eyewitness Jonathan Obey attributed the collapse to the use of substandard materials, including low-quality rods and insufficient cement, and highlighted the lack of a center pillar and beam for support. “The building’s foundation was insufficient for a two-storey structure,” Obey said.

Following the incident, Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Evans Bipi, visited the site, ordered its closure, and declared the developer wanted. Bipi condemned the unauthorized construction and negligence, noting that government approval had not been obtained and substandard materials had been used. “This site is sealed, and the developer must face the consequences,” Bipi asserted.

The Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties, Samuel Anya, also expressed dismay, criticizing the developer for prioritizing profit over safety. “This is heartbreaking,” Anya said. “The owner and engineer responsible must be held accountable as the government prioritizes the safety of lives.”

The government has pledged to take strong action against those building without approval to prevent further incidents and has expressed sympathy to the victim’s family.