Delta State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Renewal has concluded its investigation into the collapse of a two-storey building under construction at 28, Uchenna Okolo Street, opposite St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, West-End, Asaba, establishing violations relating to building regulations, professional standards and development control requirements.
The investigation was conducted by a committee led by the Honourable Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Renewal, Hon. Sunday Tatabuzogwu, following the collapse of the structure.
After considering the findings of the investigation, the committee recommended a series of sanctions and remedial measures aimed at addressing the violations and protecting neighbouring properties and the public.
The recommendations include revocation of the development permit previously issued for the structure, sealing and seizure of the land and property on which the collapsed building was situated, payment of damages and associated costs by the errant developer to owners of neighbouring buildings affected by the collapse, while he is to bear all costs arising from the collapse and related remedial measures.
Also recommended include the arrest of the developer and site engineer for appropriate legal action by the State Ministry of Justice, revocation of the Certificate of Occupancy (C of O) covering the property and forfeiture of the development and the land to the Delta State Government, in accordance with applicable laws.
Speaking on the outcome of the investigation, the Commissioner, Hon. Sunday Tatabuzogwu, warned that violations of building regulations, professional standards and development control requirements would attract appropriate sanctions.
He stressed that the state government would not compromise public safety or tolerate disregard for established development control procedures.
The Commissioner further reiterated the ministry’s commitment to ensuring strict compliance with approved building plans, professional standards and the provisions of the Delta State Physical Planning and Urban Renewal Law, 2024.
He said the ministry would continue to strengthen development control and enforcement measures to safeguard lives and property and ensure that physical development across Delta State is carried out in accordance with approved plans, regulations and professional standards.