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Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara has ordered the immediate closure of the site of a collapsed building on Peter Odili Road in Port Harcourt, pending the outcome of investigations into the incident that claimed lives.
The governor gave the directive on Thursday during an inspection visit to the scene, where he expressed sadness over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families of the victims.
Gov. Fubara explained that he delayed his visit to the site until he received an official briefing from relevant authorities. According to him, information provided by the appropriate commissioner indicated that the project fell within the jurisdiction of the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) rather than the Rivers State Government.
He disclosed that state officials had repeatedly attempted to inspect the building while construction was ongoing to assess compliance with safety standards. However, the developer allegedly resisted such inspections, insisting that the state government had no authority over the project.
The governor who was accompanied by the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Amairigha Edward Hart, stressed that the state's concern was never about interference but about safeguarding lives and ensuring adherence to construction regulations.
Describing the collapse as unfortunate and avoidable, Gov. Fubara questioned how a project with apparent structural concerns could have progressed despite advancements in engineering and building technology.
He lamented the loss of lives, noting that such incidents should not occur in modern times when professional standards and safety measures are expected to guide construction activities.
The governor assured affected families of the government's support and vowed that no further work would take place at the site until investigators determine the exact cause of the collapse.
He directed that the premises remain completely sealed while authorities carry out a comprehensive probe into the circumstances surrounding the disaster.
