By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Following the tragic building collapse at Odu-Igbo Market in Ochanja, Onitsha, Anambra State, on Monday evening, the state

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, has emphasized his commitment to tackling the issue of illegal constructions and impunity in the state.

He stated this when he paid an emergency visit to the spot of the collapsed building in Onitsha on Tuesday, noting that the building which was under construction was erected by a private developer who did not have government approval.

Addressing a large crowd at the scene of the incident, Governor Soludo expressed deep sadness at the incident, describing it as “tragic and an incident that was not supposed to happen.”

The Governor announced that 26 individuals had been rescued and hospitalized, five casualties recorded, with rescue efforts ongoing to locate those still trapped under the rubbles.

He said: "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 of this building. We will redesign this area and build it properly.”

Soludo went on to announce a series of measures to address the issue, saying:

“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.”

While emphasizing the importance of prioritizing public safety, Soludo vowed to eradicate “the impunity and lawlessness” surrounding unauthorized construction, adding, “We can’t afford to waste one life because of the greed of a few.”

He further declared that the hospital bills of those receiving treatment will be undertaken by the government, even as he expressed deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.

This event highlights the importance of adhering to construction regulations and the Governor’s commitment to ensuring public safety in Anambra State.

Earlier, the Chairman of Ochanja Market, Mr. Bonaventure Mmuo, pledged to disseminate the Governor’s message to all market leaders in the state.

Meanwhile, information gathered by News Express has it that the building collapse was caused by structural defect.

The Governor was accompanied by various government officials, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi, Chief of Protocol, Mr. Chinedu Nwoye, Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Felix Odimegwu, Commissioner for Information Sir Paul Nwosu, MD ANSIPPA, Mr. Mark Okoye, Chairman, Anambra Urban Regeneration Council, Architect Mike Okonkwo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets Evarist Ubah, among others.