News
Two-Storey Building Collapse in Rivers Kills One and Injures Another

On Monday afternoon, a two-storey building under construction in Rivers State collapsed, leading to the tragic death of one worker and leaving another severely injured.
The incident occurred in the Egbelu Mgbaraja area of the Ogbogoro community within the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area around 2 p.m., marking the second building collapse in the area within just one week.
An eyewitness, Jonathan Obey, who was on-site during the collapse, recounted that the structure gave way as workers were labouring on the second floor.
The deceased, identified simply as Udeme from Akwa Ibom State, was a young man who tragically lost his life when the building crumbled.
Another worker managed to escape death but sustained serious injuries that required immediate medical attention.
Obey attributed the incident to poor construction practices, claiming the foundation and support structures were weak and made with substandard materials.
“When we arrived, it was clear that the quality of materials used was subpar,” Obey explained.
“They used low-quality rods, and the cement was inadequate for a building of this size.
The decking lacked central pillars and beams, which ultimately caused the collapse.”
In response to this incident, Evans Bipi, the Rivers State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, visited the site and immediately ordered the premises to be sealed.
Bipi expressed his disapproval of the developer’s negligence, revealing that the construction had been carried out without necessary government permits and was built using substandard materials.
Bipi went on to declare the developer wanted, emphasizing that such disregard for safety regulations would not go unpunished.
“We’ve repeatedly warned developers that any construction without government approval will face serious consequences,” Bipi stated sternly.
He highlighted that the developer’s actions were not only irresponsible but also unlawful, risking the lives of workers and future occupants by cutting corners.
As he spoke with locals and officials on-site, Bipi promised that the government would take decisive action to prevent similar incidents from recurring.
“This situation is unacceptable,” he added. “We need to make an example out of this developer to deter others from taking similar risks.”
Through a statement issued by his media aide, Emeka Idika Kalu, Bipi extended his condolences to the bereaved family.
He shared that the remains of Udeme would be held at a designated mortuary, with the location being disclosed to allow family members to claim his body.
Samuel Anya, the Rivers State Commissioner for Special Duties, also visited the site and voiced his frustration over the negligence that led to the collapse.
Anya stressed that profit-driven motives should never outweigh safety considerations.
“This tragedy is deeply disheartening,” Anya remarked. “It’s clear that the building was not only poorly constructed but also lacked proper approval.
Someone’s life has been taken because of these reckless shortcuts.”
Anya further asserted that those involved would face accountability measures, adding that the government prioritizes the safety of all residents and would not tolerate such careless practices.
“The owner and the engineer responsible must answer for this.
The state will not stand by while innocent lives are endangered.”
The Rivers State government has been intensifying efforts to monitor construction projects and enforce building regulations in recent years.
Still, incidents like these reveal the challenges of ensuring compliance across numerous private developments.
News
Joe Igbokwe Accuses Nigerians of Causing Their Own Hardship

APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe has pointed fingers at Nigerian traders for the continued surge in food prices across the country. In a Facebook post on Saturday, the outspoken supporter of President Bola Tinubu’s administration accused traders of being too greedy to reduce their prices.
He added that even as statistics suggest that the cost of food is starting to drop, traders have refused to comply. Furthermore, he expressed frustration, saying the refusal to lower prices shows a deeper problem of selfishness among citizens. According to him, Nigerians are their own worst enemies, driven by greed and a habit of taking more than they need.
News
President Tinubu to Attend Pope Leo XIV’s Inauguration in Rome

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to travel to Rome this Saturday to attend the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, the new leader of the Roman Catholic Church. The invitation came directly from Pope Leo XIV, who emphasized the importance of the president’s presence during this significant moment for the Church and a world facing many challenges.
Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, will be officially installed as the 267th Bishop of Rome on Sunday, May 18, at St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican.
President Tinubu will be accompanied by key Catholic figures, including the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Archbishop Lucius Ugorji of Owerri, Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja, Archbishop Alfred Martins of Lagos, and Bishop Mathew Hassan Kukah of Sokoto.
Notably, Pope Leo XIV has a special connection to Nigeria, having worked at the Apostolic Nunciature in Lagos during the 1980s. After the ceremony, President Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja on Tuesday, May 20.
News
Makinde Tells Nigerians to Protect Their Culture and Not Let It Disappear

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged Nigerians to preserve their culture and ensure it doesn’t fade away with time. Speaking through his deputy, Barrister Adebayo Lawal, at the 2025 World Egungun Festival grand finale held in Ibadan, Makinde emphasized the importance of keeping traditions alive.
The event took place at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in the Oke Ado area and was graced by top dignitaries including Chief Lekan Alabi, who represented the Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, Osun State’s Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Ojo Abiodun, Prince Adeola Adelakun of Oje Parapo Worldwide, and Oyo State’s own Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Dr. Wasiu Olatunbosun.
Makinde stressed that culture and tourism are key focus areas for his administration, and his government is committed to supporting efforts that will keep local traditions thriving. He added that by investing in cultural events and heritage, the state can boost its economy through tourism and increase revenue. He said, “We must not let our culture die. I’m glad to see young people taking part in this celebration, not just the elders.”
-
Sport21 hours ago
“Ronaldo Missed Al-Nassr Game Because of a Cold” — Pioli Says
-
Sport21 hours ago
Ademola Lookman Nominated for Serie A Player of the Month for May
-
Entertainment21 hours ago
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Sequel Delayed Until 2027
-
Entertainment24 hours ago
Priscilla Ojo Sparks Pregnancy Rumors Again After Stunning New Video
-
Entertainment23 hours ago
Weekend Vibes: Unwind This Saturday with Throwback Playlist Featuring Usher’s Most Iconic Hits
-
Entertainment21 minutes ago
N.Flying Celebrates 10 Years with ‘Everlasting’ Album and World Tour
-
Entertainment17 minutes ago
French Rapper Werenoi Passes Away Suddenly at 31
-
Sport19 minutes ago
Salah Says De Bruyne Should Join Liverpool After Leaving Man City