*ANAMBRA BUILDING COLLAPSE: GOVERNOR SOLUDO PLEDGES ACTION, ORDERS DEMOLITION OF UNAPPROVED STRUCTURES*

By Christian Aburime

Following the tragic building collapse at Odu-Igbo Market, Ochanja, Anambra State Governor, Professor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, conducted an emergency visit to the site.

Addressing a large crowd at the scene of the incident, Governor Soludo expressed deep sadness at the incident, describing it as "tragic and an incident that was not supposed to happen."

The Governor announced that 26 individuals had been rescued and hospitalized, five casualties recorded, with rescue efforts ongoing to locate those still trapped under the rubbles

He emphasized his commitment to tackling the issue of illegal constructions and impunity in the state, revealing that the collapsed building was erected by a private developer without government approval.

"The contractor at his own cost will come and put down the illegal buildings he erected here," Governor Soludo declared

"They are all going to come down. My government did not approve of this building. We will redesign this area and build it properly."

Governor Soludo went on to announce a series of measures to address the issue.

"All buildings constructed without proper approval will be brought down henceforth, including structures currently under construction at other markets.

"A comprehensive inventory of buildings in Anambra markets and public places will be conducted.

"Markets will undergo integrity tests to identify and remove potentially unsafe structures and individuals found responsible for illegal construction will face legal consequences, "the Governor maintained.

He emphasized the importance of prioritizing public safety and vowed to eradicate "the impunity and lawlessness" surrounding unauthorized construction.

The Governor stated, "We can't afford to waste one life because of the greed of a few."

He revealed further that the hospital bills of those receiving treatment will be undertaken by the government and expressed deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives

This event highlights the importance of adhering to construction regulations and the Governor's commitment to ensuring public safety in Anambra State.

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

The Governor was accompanied by various government officials, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr Ernest Ezeajughi, Chief of Protocol, Mr. Chinedu Nwoye, Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Felix Odimegwu, Commissioner for Information Sir Paul Nwosu, MD ANSIPPA, Mr. Mark Okoye, Chairman, Anambra Urban Regeneration Council, Architect Mike Okonkwo, Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets Evarist Ubah among others.