Traders at the bustling Amobi Plastic Market in Onitsha, Anambra, narrowly escaped tragedy on Friday when a portion of a five-storey building adjacent to Korea Plaza collapsed.
The collapse occurred between 8-9 am, following about 40 minutes of vibration.
The alarming incident came to light during a routine inspection by the Onitsha team of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN-ERM) on Saturday.
The team, tasked with monitoring engineering projects across the country, promptly notified the public of the collapse.
While traders on the scene expressed gratitude for the swift discovery, many were too shaken to speak with journalists. However, citizens elsewhere in the market urged authorities to take urgent action to prevent future disasters.
In a press briefing following the inspection, the Onitsha team leader of COREN-ERM, who is also the Chairman of the Nigerian Society of Engineers Onitsha branch, Engr. Collins Oputa emphasised the importance of involving qualified engineering professionals in all construction projects. The team collected debris samples for forensic analysis to determine the cause of the collapse.
“Forensic investigations are ongoing, with the collapse site cordoned off to facilitate the process. The team leader urged residents to engage licensed engineering professionals to mitigate the risk of building failures, emphasising the role of COREN in ensuring that safety standards are met.
“The COREN-ERM team has sealed the collapse site and issued notices to supervising engineers of nearby ongoing projects to submit their designs for scrutiny. They underscored the necessity of government approval coupled with the expertise of licensed engineers for safe construction practices.
“In collaboration with the Anambra State Government, COREN aims to eliminate quackery and prevent future collapses, aligning with Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo’s vision for a secure and prosperous homeland.
Engr. Oputa urged residents to support COREN’s efforts to safeguard lives and property through rigorous engineering standards and oversight.
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