The State government has reemphasized its stand in claiming all
collapsed building sites in the state.

The State Commissioner for works, Engineer Marcel Ifejiofor stated this during the inspection of a collapsed three storey building at Miracle Street Ifite-Awka in Awka South Council Area.

On arrival at the scene, it was observed that the building which has
been completed and roofed has collapsed while the nearby structure which is a twin building was also threatened.

Addressing journalists, Commissioner Ifejiofor frowned at the high rate of building collapse and reminded developers of the dangers of patronizing quack Engineers which he said will lead to lost of both the land and property to government, advising builders to always ensure that the soil and materials they use for building are of approved standard.

He called on builders to make use of Material Testing Laboratory Agencies in the state as well as responsible and competent Engineers, among others before venturing into building as lives he said cannot be toyed with.

On his part, the Chairman, Nigerian Society of Engineers, Awka Branch,
Engr. Edmond Nkalu, stated that approval of roads, electricity, drainage channels and source of water are needed before commencing any
construction work and advocated the establishment of building control agencies in order to reduce the rate of building collapse in the state.

He appealed to developers to always demand for certification and number of contractors before the project commencement, so as to avert the inherent danger.