The Anambra State Government has formed an eight-member panel to investigate the recent collapses of the Odu Igbo building at Ochanja Market and the Centenary Building at Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS).
According to a press release from the Chief of Staff to Governor Chukwuma Soludo, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, the panel will be led by Engr. Sir Victor Meju, Chairman of the Anambra State Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria.
The panel members include:
– Arc. Ikenna Eboh, Chairman of the Anambra State Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA)
– Mr. Ben Nwofor, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP), Anambra State Chapter
– Mr. Gabriel Okeke, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors, Anambra State Chapter
– Mr. Kingsley Nweke, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Builders (NIOB), Anambra State Chapter
– Prof. Ezeagu Akaolisa, Chairman of the Institute of Structural Engineers, Anambra State
– Engr. Ebosie Ezeoke, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Anambra State Material Testing Laboratory
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing, Anambra State, will serve as the panel’s secretary.
The committee is tasked with conducting a thorough investigation into the causes of the collapses, including examining structural, design, construction, and maintenance factors. They will assess the roles of regulatory bodies and local government agencies in enforcing building codes and safety standards.
The panel will also evaluate the impact on victims, including loss of life, injuries, displacement, and economic consequences. They are expected to propose measures to support and compensate affected individuals and their families.
The committee has been given four weeks to complete their investigation and provide recommendations to prevent future incidents and improve building safety standards in Anambra State.
