BREAKING: Wike Orders Landlord’s Arrest (DETAILS)

BREAKING: Wike Orders Landlord’s Arrest (DETAILS)

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued an order for the arrest of the owner of the two-storey building that collapsed on Lagos Street, Garki Village, Abuja, on Wednesday.

The FCT Emergency Management Agency (FCT FEMA) reported that two individuals lost their lives, while 37 others were rescued and taken to the hospital.

During his visit to the scene of the incident on Thursday, Minister Wike also directed the Permanent Secretary of the FCT Administration, Adesola Olusade, to cover the medical expenses of the hospitalized victims.

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Furthermore, Wike called on the Department of Development Control, FCTA to promptly relocate the community’s residents. He urged all stakeholders to collaborate with government officials for the collective well-being.

He remarked, “This incident underscores the consequences of constructing buildings without adhering to the necessary standards. Proper city planning is designed to prevent such incidents. My condolences go out to those who lost their lives, and we will ensure that medical bills for those in the hospital are settled without delay.”

Mukhtar Galadima, the Director of Development Control, explained that the area where the building stood was unplanned and inhabited by indigenous residents. The collapsed two-storey structure served both residential and commercial purposes.

The Permanent Secretary lauded the efforts of security agencies and contractors who rallied to help evacuate debris and search for survivors.

Dr Idriss Abass, the Director-General of FCT FEMA, highlighted the ongoing efforts to ensure no one remains trapped beneath the wreckage.

Victims of the collapse shared their harrowing stories, expressing loss and the need for government assistance. Ms Glory Perekeme, who operated a restaurant and bar in the building, revealed the extent of her losses and requested aid to rebuild.

Similarly, Mrs Ann Anyi, the owner of a laundry and shoe shop, recounted the devastating impact of losing everything and her hope of recovering something from the rubble.