Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has inaugurated a panel of inquiry to investigate the recent building collapses at Ọdụ Igbo, Ochanja, and Dennis Memorial Grammar School (DMGS) in Onitsha. The inauguration took place at the Governor’s Lodge, Amawbia, less than 24 hours after the panel’s formation.
The panel, chaired by Engr. Sir Victor Meju, Chairman of the Anambra State Chapter of COREN, comprises:
– Arc. Ikenna Eboh, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) Anambra State Chapter
– TPL. Nwofor Ben Obiora, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) Anambra State Chapter
– Surv. Gabriel Okeke, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Quantity Surveyors Anambra State Chapter
– Bldr. Kingsley Nweke, Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Builders (NIOB) Anambra State Chapter
– MD/CEO Anambra State Material Testing Laboratory
– Prof. Ezeagu Akaolisa, Chairman of the Institute of Structural Engineers
– The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Housing Anambra State, who will serve as the committee’s secretary.
The panel is tasked with identifying the immediate and underlying causes of the collapses, including structural, design, construction, and maintenance factors. They are also to assess the role of relevant authorities, including regulatory bodies and local government agencies, in enforcing building codes and safety standards. The panel’s recommendations are expected to guide future actions to prevent similar incidents.
Governor Soludo emphasized the importance of the panel’s work and its potential impact on policy and safety standards. “The building collapse at Ọdụ Igbo and DMGS, Onitsha, is one too many. There is no better-qualified team than you to get to the root of this matter. Your recommendations will be crucial for the nation,” he said.
Engr. Meju expressed gratitude to the Governor for entrusting them with this critical task. “We understand the significance of this appointment and will ensure our recommendations benefit the people of Anambra,” he stated.
Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, and the Press Secretary to the Governor were also present at the event.
