Abia State government has warned residents against the removal of illegal structure without the supervision by the Ministry of Works of the state.
The warning was given by the state government in view of the loss of life in an effort by residents to remove an illegal structure along Port Harcourt Road, Aba.
In a statement by the Abia State Commissioner of Information, John Okiyi Kalu, the government said much as it appreciated the efforts of the residents there was need to stick to safety rules.
It expressed regret over the loss of life in the process of removing the illegal structure and condoled those who lost properties.
The statement reads: “We received with sadness the report of the loss of a life arising from residents’ voluntary effort to remove an illegal structure along Port Harcourt Road, Aba, which is currently under reconstruction by Setraco-Hartland construction company.
“Initial reports available to us indicate that in the course of removing illegal attachments to a property by its owners, the building collapsed and unfortunately killed a non-resident engaged in petty trading activity around the property.
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“Our hearts are with the family and friends of the deceased, even as we continue efforts to trace her next of kin.
“While we appreciate the cooperation and exemplary support of the residents and landlords association of Port Harcourt Road, to ensure that we quickly realise a new 6-lane road from the long abandoned but critically important Port Harcourt Road, Aba, it is important to call on residents and landlords to abide by our safety rules and protocols including complete evacuation of people living in or doing business around a marked property before commencing demolition of extensions and illegal structures.
“It is important to remark at this point that this has been the focus of the advocacy drive by the Ministry of Works even before the commencement of this huge project.
“No resident or landlord will henceforth be permitted to remove illegal structures without relevant supervisors from the Ministry of Works.
“Once more, we extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and sympathise with others who lost properties as a result of the collapse of the building.”
