River State to prosecute contractor, seize property over collapsed building

Governor Nyesom Wike on Sunday said the Rivers State Government will prosecute contractor of the collapsed 7-storey building and take steps to acquire the property.

Reports given was that the 7-storey building located at Woji Road in the Government Reserved Area (GRA) of Port Harcourt collapsed on Friday evening.

As at Sunday, 38 persons have been rescued, while six persons have been confirmed dead.

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Governor Wike said the 7-storey building is not allowed in the area, according to master plan of the area.

“Government will take steps to acquire this property. We cannot allow this illegality. If you look at masterplan of this area, a 7-storey building is not allowed here.

“Whoever is involved, from the owner or the contractor or the officials of the state, they will face the full wrath of the law.

“Whoever that approved this structure and those involved in the construction will face the law. Government will take every necessary step to ensure that culprits are brought to justice.

“I have directed the Attorney-General of Rivers State to ensure that all legal steps are taken to do what is right within the ambit of the law,” the Governor said.

He promised government support for families that have lost their loved ones.

“I feel so pained that we have to face this kind of calamity at this time. I commiserate with the families that have lost their loved ones who came to seek their daily bread. Government will do all it can to give them the necessary support,” Wike stated.

Credit: TNG