The Federal Government has ordered an immediate investigation into the recent collapse of a two-storey building in Noman’s Land Quarters, Fagge Local Government Area of Kano State.
The collapse, which occurred on Thursday last week, has left two people dead and two others hospitalised, according to a report by the National Emergency Management Agency.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Salisu Haiba, the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, expressed deep concern over the incident and directed that a full-scale investigation be conducted to determine the cause of the collapse.
“The government will take decisive action after the findings are submitted,” Dangiwa said.
He emphasised the need for a thorough overhaul of the building industry to prevent further tragedies.
He highlighted the importance of implementing building codes and regulations across the country.
Dangiwa described the Kano collapse as “another sad development exposing the rot in the building industry over the years, which if unchecked will continue to remain catastrophic to the industry and society.”
The Minister urged state governments and relevant agencies to act swiftly to prevent further incidents.
“I implore the State governments, who are closer to the people and directly supervising the land, to wake up and be more effective in checking the excesses of quacks in the building construction industry,” he added.
Recalling a similar building collapse in Jos, Plateau State, earlier this year, Dangiwa reiterated the federal government’s commitment to holding those responsible accountable.
“I have received the report of the Jos collapse investigation, and a checklist of all professionals involved in the construction is being compiled for us to take action,” he stated.
He further assured that the government would enforce stricter regulations to deter reckless and unprofessional practices in the construction industry.
“The ministry is working on a robust regulation mechanism with relevant stakeholders in the industry to enforce building codes across the country in close collaboration with the states,” he said.
Dangiwa also emphasised the importance of ensuring that building permits are properly issued and that high-quality materials are used in construction.
“If any infraction is found in the process, appropriate penalties must be applied,” he said.
The Minister extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those injured in the incident.
