ONITSHA MARKET BUILDING COLLAPSE: FIVE DEAD AS RESCUE EFFORTS CONTINUE; SOLUDO THREATENS DEMOLITION

REPORTER: BEN ILECHUKWU

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has expressed deep sadness over the tragic building collapse at Odu-Igbo Market, Ochanja in Onitsha.

According to Governor Soludo, twenty six individuals had been rescued and hospitalized, five casualties recorded, with rescue efforts ongoing to locate those still trapped under the rubbles.

It was alleged that the structure was erected by a private developer without approval from government.

Governor Soludo, who made his feelings known during an emergency visit to the scene of the incident, stated that the unfortunate development would have been averted.

The Governor reemphasized his commitment to tackling the issue of illegal construction and impunity in the state.

While maintaining that adequate measures would be taken to forstall future occurrence, the Governor announced that some buildings constructed without proper approval would be demolished including structures currently under construction at other markets.

Governor Soludo further highlighted the importance of prioritizing public safety and vowed to eradicate impunity and lawlessness bothering on unauthorized construction.

Earlier, the Chairman of Ochanja Market, Mr. Bonaventure Mmuo, had pledged to disseminate the Governor’s message to all market leaders in the state.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU