The panel of enquiry established by Governor Chukwuma Soludo to investigate the building collapses at Odu Igbo market in Ochanja and Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) in Onitsha has commenced its hearings at the Government House in Awka.
Inaugurated last Thursday, the panel was tasked by the Governor to conduct a thorough investigation into the two building collapses. Their mandate includes identifying the immediate and underlying causes—such as structural, design, construction, and maintenance issues—and assessing the role of relevant authorities, including regulatory bodies and local government agencies, in enforcing building codes and safety standards.
The panel is also expected to evaluate the impact of the collapses on affected individuals, families, and communities, including loss of life, injuries, displacement, and economic consequences. They are to recommend measures to support and compensate victims and their families.
Comprising professionals from various fields related to building and construction, the panel aims to provide recommendations for corrective actions and policy reforms to enhance building safety and standards in Anambra State.
On Monday, February 15, 2024, a three-storey building of lock-up shops under construction collapsed at Odu Igbo market, Ochanja. Similarly, on Democracy Day, Wednesday, June 12, 2024, a five-storey DMGS Centenary building also collapsed.
Engineer Victor Meju, Chairman of the panel, attributed the collapses to inadequate supervision by concerned persons and agencies and the failure to conduct necessary laboratory tests on construction materials. He emphasized the need for an additional supervisory agency to assist the Physical Planning Board and Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) in monitoring building construction.
During the panel’s first session, those who appeared included Professor Chris Onyeka, the consultant handling the DMGS building; Engineer Chiedu Ibeabuchi, a previous contractor on site; Chukwuemeka Nweke, the supervising engineer; and Chidubem Olisa, the architect who designed the building. Each provided detailed accounts of their involvement up to the time of the collapse, and members of the panel questioned them extensively.
The panel of enquiry’s hearings will continue today at the Secretary to the State Government Hall, Government House, Awka.
