- The governor said the 26 injured individuals have been hospitalized.
- Soludo reiterated his commitment to addressing the issue of illegal constructions in the state
At least five persons have died in a building collapsed at Odu-Igbo Market in Ochanja, Anambra State.
Twenty six other persons were also injured in the mishap.
The state governor, Chukwuma Soludo, who visited the scene on Tuesday, described the incident as “tragic”.
He disclosed that rescue operations are still ongoing to find those still trapped beneath the rubbles, adding that the collapse was avoidable.
While expressing deep sorrow over the incident, Soludo said the 26 injured individuals have been hospitalized.
Soludo reiterated his commitment to addressing the issue of illegal constructions in the state.
He further revealed that the collapsed building was erected by a private developer without government approval.
“The contractor at his own cost will come and put down the illegal buildings he erected here.
“They are all going to come down. My government did not approve this building. We will redesign this area and build it properly.
“All buildings constructed without proper approval will be brought down henceforth, including structures currently under construction at other markets.
“A comprehensive inventory of buildings in Anambra markets and public places will be conducted.
“Markets will undergo integrity tests to identify and remove potentially unsafe structures and individuals found responsible for illegal construction will face legal consequences,” he added.
The governor stressed the importance of prioritizing public safety, vowing to eradicate “the impunity and lawlessness” surrounding unauthorized construction