The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has decried the recent building collapses in Anambra and Ogun States while calling for stricter enforcement of building regulations and structural safety standards across Nigeria.

In a press statement on Wednesday, Obi described the collapse of buildings in Amaokpala, Anambra State, which claimed two lives, and the reported building collapse in Ogun State as painful reminders of the need to prioritise public safety.

He said he was particularly saddened by the collapse of structures housing, among others, some students of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Amaokpala, noting that although the deceased were not students of the institution, the tragedy had deeply affected the community.

READ ALSO:

“The collapse of structures housing, among others, some students of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Amaokpala, Anambra State, is deeply distressing. I am saddened by the tragic loss of two lives in this unfortunate incident,” Obi said.

He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured in the incident.

Obi noted that the Ogun building collapse, which occurred only days after the Anambra tragedy, further reflected the urgent need for authorities to strengthen compliance with approved building standards.

“These incidents call for deeper reflection and urgent action. 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,” he stated.

He commended the Anambra and Ogun state governments, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, emergency responders, security agencies, and other stakeholders for their swift rescue and relief efforts.

According to him, their prompt intervention helped prevent an even greater loss of lives.

Obi stressed that the safety and welfare of Nigerians, particularly students and young people, must remain a national priority.

“The safety and welfare of our citizens, especially our young people, must remain central to our development efforts. We must continue to invest not only in educational infrastructure but also in ensuring that every environment in which our people live and learn is safe and fit for purpose,” he said.

He also offered prayers for the victims, their families, and all those affected by the incidents, reaffirming his commitment to supporting students and investing in their education, safety, and well-being as part of building what he described as a “New Nigeria.”

Please follow and like us: