Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, has called for a thorough investigation into the recent building collapse in Sabon Lugbe, Abuja.
According to reports, approximately 40 individuals are believed to be trapped beneath the debris of the collapsed structure, which occurred on Saturday.
In response to this tragic event, Obi took to his official X account to express his concern over the increasing frequency of building collapses across Nigeria, labelling the situation as alarming and in need of immediate national focus.
He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all victims are rescued safely, stating, “The rising incidence of building collapses in our nation is deeply troubling and requires urgent attention. The unfortunate collapse in Sabon Lugbe, which has left nearly 40 people trapped, is merely one example of a broader crisis.”
Obi acknowledged the efforts of residents and emergency responders who have been on-site since the disaster, assisting with initial rescue operations. He urged the government to ramp up its efforts to secure the safe recovery of all individuals affected.
“Beyond immediate rescue operations, it is critical for relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the causes of these building failures to prevent future incidents. We must take a closer look at our building codes and regulations, ensuring they are robust and strictly enforced across the nation,” he added.
He also stressed the necessity of holding accountable those responsible for construction failures, urging that builders, engineers, and supervisors who exhibit negligence should face legal consequences. “My thoughts are with all those trapped under the debris, and I fervently hope for their swift and safe return to their loved ones,” Obi concluded.
