Seven injured as building under construction collapses in Akure

Seven persons sustained injuries on Tuesday following the collapse of a building under construction in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

The incident occurred beside the former Secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Cathedral area of the city, triggering panic among residents and passers-by.

Confirming the development, the Ondo State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Sunday Olajide, who visited the scene, said the state government had commenced an investigation to determine both the immediate and underlying causes of the collapse.

Olajide warned developers against the use of substandard building materials, stressing that safety must remain a priority in all construction activities across the state.

He also urged developers to always obtain the necessary permits and approvals from relevant government agencies before embarking on any building project.

According to the commissioner, the government would not tolerate negligence or violations of building regulations, noting that such actions endanger lives and property.

“The use of substandard materials and failure to comply with approved building plans will attract strict sanctions,” Olajide said.

He disclosed that the affected construction site had been sealed by the state government pending the outcome of the investigation, adding that appropriate actions would be taken against anyone found culpable.

The injured victims were rescued from the debris and taken to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

Residents of the area have called on the government to intensify monitoring of construction sites to prevent a recurrence, as building collapses have continued to pose safety concerns in urban centres.

The Ondo State Government reiterated its commitment to enforcing physical planning laws and ensuring that all construction projects conform to approved standards.

Facebook/Crest FM