From TCNEWS
The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), Umuahia Branch, in conjunction with the Abia State Technical Committee of the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN), has commenced an engineering investigation into the recent structural failure at a residential site located between Road 1 and Road 2 in the Low-Cost Housing Estate, Umuahia.
Briefing the press shortly after a technical site visit, the Chairman of NSE Umuahia Branch, Engr. Enyinnaya Romanus, confirmed that a total collapse occurred involving one block of a three-storey building within the estate. The failed structure is part of a cluster of multiple storey buildings situated on the site.
Following preliminary assessment, the team advised the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) to immediately seal off the premises to prevent further hazards. Acting on the recommendation, UCDA sealed the property and evacuated all occupants from the site, including those in adjacent buildings within the property, as a precautionary measure.
The remaining two standing blocks are now subject to a detailed structural integrity assessment, to ascertain their stability.
The collapse had a consequential impact on a neighbouring building located behind the failed structure. The NSE/COREN team observed that the inadequate setback between structures contributed to the spread of the damage. Engr. Romanus emphasized the importance of compliance with urban planning regulations, particularly with regard to minimum setback requirements, which are critical for safety, ventilation, access, and structural isolation during emergencies.
The team also noted that the collapsed building failed progressively, rather than in a toppling fashion, with debris projecting outward. While this reduced the potential for a cascading collapse of adjacent structures, it still resulted in collateral damage.
The COREN State Technical Committee has initiated a forensic engineering investigation to determine the root cause of the collapse, including possible design flaws, construction defects, material failures, or geotechnical deficiencies. A comprehensive report will be issued upon completion of the analysis.
Engr. Romanus reiterated the need for strict adherence to engineering codes and standards, urging regulatory authorities to enforce compliance throughout all phases of construction. “This incident is a wake-up call. Engineering supervision and statutory approvals must never be compromised if we are to prevent avoidable structural failures in the future,” he stated.
