OWERRI BUILDING COLLAPSE: COREN to Commence Full Scale Investigation, Seeks Imo Government's Support

The Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) has declared that it is launching a full-scale investigation into the issues surrounding the collapse of a six (6) storey building at Owerri the Imo state capital which took place a week and one day ago on the 30th of April.

President of COREN, Engr. Ali A. Rabiu, made this known in a press release today at Abuja.

In the statement, Rabiu sought the full support of the Imo State Government by asking that all  "ministries, departments and agencies responsible for urban development control within the state be directed to allow COREN unfettered access to approval process records and documents".

He stated that the Council will ensure that any engineering practitioner or individual found to be culpable will be dealt with, including possible prosecution. COREN is mandated by law to do this.

Meanwhile, rescue efforts are still in progress at the collapse site as the Owerri Capital Development Authority (OCDA) is coordinating the efforts. As at the last count, 15 bodies have been recovered, while many others were injured and are getting treatment.

The Paul Anunaso Blog will continue to monitor developments as they occur and report the same.