The Abia State Government has mandated comprehensive integrity tests on all storey buildings across the state following the collapse of an uncompleted three-storey building in Umuahia on Saturday morning.
The directive was announced by the General Manager of the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), Mr. Kingsley Agomoh, during a press briefing after the State Executive Council meeting on Tuesday in Umuahia.
Agomoh stated that the exercise—targeting completed, uncompleted, occupied, and unoccupied buildings—is part of the government’s proactive steps to prevent future building collapses. He assured that the tests would be thorough but concluded within a reasonable timeframe.
“Any building that fails the integrity test will face decisive government action,” Agomoh said.
He revealed that the collapsed structure had only been roofed before it gave way at about 3:30 a.m. on Saturday. Two adjacent buildings, reportedly constructed by the same engineer using similar materials, have also been sealed off. Residents and security personnel were evacuated from the vicinity as a precautionary measure.
Agomoh stressed that all multi-storey buildings must comply strictly with approved building plans and construction standards. He reiterated the state government’s zero tolerance for professional misconduct within the building industry and pledged that the findings from the ongoing tests and investigations would be made public.
No Fatalities, Company Under Investigation
Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, confirmed that no lives were lost in the incident. However, three individuals sustained injuries and were promptly treated by the state’s Ministry of Health before being moved to a hospital for further care.
He identified the collapsed structure as the property of an elder statesman and disclosed that it had not yet been plastered. The construction company responsible for all three buildings has been apprehended and is assisting police with investigations.
Builders, Officials to Be Held Accountable — Ekeoma
The Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, said the probe into the collapse would be thorough and impartial. He emphasized that both the builders and any government officials found culpable would face appropriate sanctions.
“Sanctions will depend on the outcome of the investigation. Accountability will be enforced at all levels,” he said.
The government reiterated its commitment to ensuring public safety, enforcing compliance with building regulations, and restoring public confidence in infrastructure development across the state.
