Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed sadness over the recent building collapses in Anambra and Ogun states, describing the incidents as painful reminders of the need to strengthen building safety regulations across the country.
In a statement on Tuesday, Obi lamented the collapse of structures in Amaokpala, Anambra State, which housed, among others, some students of the Federal Polytechnic, Oko. He condoled with the families of the two persons who lost their lives, noting that although the deceased were not students of the institution, the tragedy remained deeply distressing.
“The collapse of structures housing, among others, some students of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, in Amaokpala, Anambra State, is deeply distressing. I am saddened by the tragic loss of two lives in this unfortunate incident.”
He also extended his sympathies to the bereaved families and prayed for those receiving treatment.
“While I understand that the deceased were not students of the Polytechnic, I extend my heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones. I also pray for the quick recovery of those who sustained injuries.”
Obi described the reported building collapse in Ogun State, which occurred shortly after the Anambra incident, as another painful reminder of the urgent need to prioritise public safety.
“Coming barely days after the unfortunate similar incident at Amaokpala, the reported collapse of a building in Ogun State, with the loss of lives, is another painful reminder of the urgent need to prioritise the safety of our people.”
The former Anambra governor commended the Anambra and Ogun state governments, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, emergency responders and security agencies for their swift response to both emergencies.
According to him, their coordinated intervention helped prevent even greater loss of lives.
“I commend the Anambra State Government, the Ogun State Government, the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Irene Awuzie, emergency responders, security agencies, and all involved in the rescue and relief efforts for their swift and coordinated response. Their prompt actions helped prevent what could have been even greater tragedies.”
Obi called for stricter enforcement of building regulations, insisting that authorities must ensure compliance with approved construction standards and carry out regular structural integrity assessments to prevent avoidable disasters.
“These incidents call for deeper reflection and urgent action.”
He added; “Across our country, we must strengthen the enforcement of building regulations, ensure strict compliance with approved standards, and insist on regular structural integrity assessments to avoid preventable tragedies.”
Obi stressed that protecting lives, especially those of young Nigerians, should remain central to national development.
“The safety and welfare of our citizens, especially our young people, must remain central to our development efforts.”
He said investments in education should go beyond classrooms to ensuring safe environments for learning and living.
“We must continue to invest not only in educational infrastructure but also in ensuring that every environment in which our people live and learn is safe and fit for purpose.”
The former governor extended his condolences to all those affected by the tragedies and prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who lost their lives, those who were injured, the students affected by the Amaokpala incident, and all impacted by these unfortunate events. May God grant eternal rest to the deceased, comfort their loved ones, and grant the injured a swift recovery.”
Reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of students, Obi said investing in young people remains key to building a better Nigeria.
“I will continue to cherish and support our students, as they remain central to building the New Nigeria we aspire to. By investing in their education, safety, and well-being, we make that New Nigeria possible.”