Why we’ll not approve three-storey buildings without elevators — Abia govt

The Abia State government has explained why developers would no longer get approval for three-storey building without elevator.

This, according to the government, is for safety and habitable for users and owners, warning developers that the state will no longer approve such construction.

Speaking during a training session for the personnel of the building control unit of the Greater Aba Development Authority (GADA), the General Manager of the agency, Architect Uche Ukeje, emphasised the need for strict implementation of building control measures.

Ukeje, represented by the Head of the Building Control Unit of GADA, Mr. Enyinnaya Romanus, said the move aims to eliminate building collapses, protect lives and properties, and ensure the construction of environmentally friendly buildings.

He warned officials of the building control unit to ensure stage-by-stage monitoring and supervision of building projects to maintain high standards.

He said, “Before now, there was nothing like building control in Aba. Now, the rule is that before you cast your foundation, there are certain approvals you must get. Then, you come back, and we must come to the site to inspect as you build to enable us to know if you are following the approvals. We are going to ensure stage-by-stage supervision and monitoring of building projects. GADA won’t allow sharp practices.

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“There are certain facilities or designs that must be fitted in some types of buildings; otherwise, you won’t get further approvals to build. No developer will get further approval if there are no provisions for elevators in any storey buildings from three floors. We must approve your plan for drainage and waste disposal, or your project will be stalled until you comply with standard practices.

“The era of piping waste to drainage by developers is gone. Any developer who contravenes any standard will be arrested and prosecuted if he fails to remedy the contravention within the period allowed. We are not against any developer but are ensuring that buildings are safe, fit, and habitable.

“We don’t want to hear of buildings collapsing and killing people. If you lose a property, you know how many millions of naira will be involved, and you also know the state of the economy. GADA has come to improve the old method of building without standards. We have digitalized our operations. You can ascertain the status of your project, no matter your location. And if we ask you to stop work on your project, you can easily check our platforms and find out the reason.

“We are also working with environmental health officials to arrest and prosecute those destroying our environment. We have already carried out adequate sensitization of residents about the need to protect the environment.”