The Akwa Ibom State government has ordered an investigation into the collapse of a four-story building in Uyo, the state capital, just a day after it occurred.
Ini Ememobong, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, announced this in a statement on Sunday.
The Herald reports that on Saturday evening, a four-story building under construction on Imam Street, along Aka Road in Akwa Ibom State, collapsed.
A day after the tragedy, Akwa Ibom’s Governor, Udom Emmanuel directed the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service to immediately convene an inquiry panel to investigate the incident.
“The panel is to conclude its work within one month, and if it is found that the collapse of the building was as a result of any acts of negligence or wrongdoing, those responsible will face the full wrath of the law,” Ememobong said in the statement.
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The state government had confirmed that at least one of the victims trapped in the rubble was killed, but no specific figure was provided.
“The Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has expressed his deepest condolences to the families whose relatives were trapped and eventually died in the collapsed building, while wishing the survivors a quick recovery.
“He has directed the Commissioner for Health to immediately take over the management of the survivors,” the commissioner added.
The Governor of Akwa Ibom praised all first responders, rescue and security agencies, government officials, volunteer organizations, and residents who assisted in the multi-hour rescue operation.
He was especially grateful to the construction companies that donated equipment during the rescue exercise to help the operation.
Building collapse
Four people were rescued after a four-story building under construction collapsed on Imam Street, along Aka Road in Akwa Ibom State.
On Saturday night, Ini Ememobong revealed the information on his Facebook page.
“All Critical rescue and security agencies- the Police, DSS, Fire Service are on the ground with technical support from some construction Companies JuliusBerger and Amitek.
“Secretary to State Government, Dr Emmanuel Ekuwem, Commissioner for Special Duties, Dr Bassey Okon and other Government officials are at the scene.
” Four persons were rescued and taken to the Hospital. Rescue operations are still ongoing to rescue more”
The incident is said to have occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, September 17, 2022.