…Demands stricter safety standards

Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep sorrow over the recent building collapses in Anambra and Ogun states, describing the incidents as painful reminders of the urgent need to strengthen building safety regulations across Nigeria.

 

In a statement on Tuesday, Obi lamented the collapse of a building in Amaokpala, Anambra State, which reportedly housed some students of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, noting that although the deceased were not students of the institution, the tragedy had claimed two lives and left several others injured.

 

He extended his condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the speedy recovery of those receiving treatment.

 

Obi also expressed sadness over another reported building collapse in Ogun State, which occurred just days after the Anambra incident, saying the recurrence of such disasters underscores the need for authorities to prioritise the safety of lives and property.

 

“Coming barely days after the unfortunate similar incident at Amaokpala, the reported collapse of a building in Ogun State, with the loss of lives, is another painful reminder of the urgent need to prioritise the safety of our people,” he said.

 

The former Anambra State governor commended the Anambra and Ogun State governments, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, emergency responders, security agencies and all those involved in rescue operations for their swift response, which he said helped minimise the scale of the tragedies.

 

According to him, the incidents should prompt serious reflection and decisive action by relevant authorities to prevent future occurrences.

 

He called for stricter enforcement of building regulations, full compliance with approved construction standards and regular structural integrity assessments to safeguard lives.

 

“Across our country, we must strengthen the enforcement of building regulations, ensure strict compliance with approved standards, and insist on regular structural integrity assessments to avoid preventable tragedies,” Obi stated.

 

He stressed that the safety and welfare of Nigerians, particularly students and young people, must remain central to national development efforts, urging greater investment in safe educational infrastructure and secure living environments.

 

Obi assured Nigerians that he would continue to support the nation’s students, whom he described as critical to building a better future.

 

“I will continue to cherish and support our students, as they remain central to building the New Nigeria we aspire to. By investing in their education, safety and well-being, we make that New Nigeria possible,” he added.