The Executive Director, Project Implementation, Federal Housing Authority (FHA), Oluremi Omowaiye, has blamed the collapse of a five-storey building under construction along Dr Peter Odili Road, near Eterna Filling Station in Port Harcourt City Local Council of Rivers State, on the developer’s alleged deviation from the approved building plan.

The building collapsed at about 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, trapping an unspecified number of construction workers and leaving residents in shock.

It was gathered that during an earlier inspection, state government officials directed the engineer supervising the project to halt construction over observed structural irregularities. The directive was allegedly ignored and work continued.

Preliminary assessments by experts reportedly indicated the use of substandard materials, including poor-quality concrete, cement and reinforcement rods.

Julius Berger Nigeria Plc supported the rescue operation by deploying heavy-duty equipment, including excavators, mobile cranes, wheel loaders, dump trucks, hydraulic breakers and concrete cutters to remove debris safely.

One person died in the incident, while three others were rescued and are receiving medical treatment.

Omowaiye explained that the FHA approved only a three-storey building for the site, but the developer allegedly added extra floors.

He noted that the approval was granted before the current FHA management assumed office.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Nigerian Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Rivers State Branch, Nwokoma Nwankwo, has called for stricter enforcement of building regulations and greater compliance with professional standards to prevent future building collapses.

His call came as authorities levelled the collapsed building following a directive by Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Describing the incident as unfortunate, Nwankwo urged the government to conduct a comprehensive forensic investigation to determine both the immediate and remote causes of the collapse.

“Such investigations are essential not only for assigning responsibility but also for preventing future occurrences,” he said.

He recommended strict enforcement of planning and development control regulations, mandatory engagement of qualified professionals throughout the project lifecycle, routine and surprise inspections at critical stages of construction, the use of certified building materials, proper supervision and documentation, stiff sanctions for erring developers and professionals, and increased public awareness to encourage the reporting of unsafe construction activities.

According to him, building collapses are largely preventable when professional standards, ethical practices and regulatory requirements are strictly observed.

“The safety of lives and property must always take precedence over cost-cutting measures and project timelines,” he added.