CurrentReport Blog In the wake of a devastating building collapse at Ochanja Market in Onitsha, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the previous general elections, Peter Obi, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families affected by the tragedy. The collapse, which occurred on Monday night, claimed the lives of at least six individuals, with over 20 more fortunate enough to be rescued from the rubble.
Expressing his profound sorrow over the loss of lives and injuries sustained, Obi emphasized the importance of adhering to stringent engineering and building standards to ensure public safety. In a press statement issued by his media adviser, Mr. Valentine Obineme, Obi underscored the need for only trained, licensed, and professional personnel to oversee construction projects. Additionally, he stressed the critical importance of ensuring that all materials used in such projects meet specified standards.
“I firmly believe that building collapses will be a thing of the past if we adhere to standards and procedures,” Obi remarked. “The tragic incident at Ochanja Market underscores the urgent need for strict compliance with safety regulations in all construction activities.”
Obi expressed gratitude to the individuals and emergency responders who played a role in rescuing those trapped in the rubble. He also called upon the state government to launch a thorough investigation into the root cause of the collapse, with the aim of preventing similar tragedies in the future.
“The victims of this tragedy were individuals striving to make ends meet,” Obi lamented. “Their lives should serve as a poignant reminder of the paramount importance of prioritizing safety in all construction endeavors.”
As efforts continue to recover from this heartbreaking incident, Peter Obi’s words serve as a solemn call to action for authorities, professionals, and communities alike to uphold the highest standards of safety in all building practices. Only through collective vigilance and unwavering commitment to safety can we hope to prevent such tragic losses in the future.