By David Ndife
The Anambra State Government has demolished a collapsed three-storey building under construction in Umuoji, Idemili North Local Government Area, as part of efforts to strengthen compliance with building regulations and protect lives and property.
The demolition was carried out on Thursday by the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development following technical assessments that declared the structure unsafe and a threat to nearby residents and properties.
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Barr. Chijioke Ojukwu, said the action aligns with the state government’s commitment to orderly urban development, public safety, and strict enforcement of approved building standards.
He explained that the demolition was a preventive measure aimed at averting future disasters rather than punishing the developer, stressing that unsafe and distressed structures would not be tolerated.
The building, located in Umuoma Village, reportedly collapsed on May 18 while construction workers were still on site, although no casualties were recorded.
Preliminary findings attributed the collapse to the use of substandard materials and poor construction practices, including the stacking of blocks before adequate curing and the use of unsuitable reinforcement materials.
While inspecting the site during the demolition, Barr. Ojukwu disclosed that the project violated several building regulations, including the absence of approved permits, non-compliance with setback requirements, and excessive development beyond the capacity of the land.
He warned developers, contractors, and property owners against ignoring established planning laws, noting that the ministry would intensify monitoring and enforcement across the state.
According to the commissioner, the government is reviewing existing laws to impose stricter sanctions on developers who fail to meet approved standards, with criminal penalties among measures being considered.
Ojukwu also urged builders to engage qualified professionals and comply with regulatory requirements, while reaffirming the state’s commitment to urban regeneration projects, including key infrastructure developments planned for Nnewi.
