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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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“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.

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“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.”

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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.


 

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Shehu Sani Says Keeping Nnamdi Kanu in Detention Without Trial Is Unfair

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Former Kaduna Central Senator Shehu Sani has criticized the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), and the indefinite postponement of his trial.

Sani described the situation as unfair, emphasizing that justice cannot be achieved through injustice.

Sharing his thoughts on X, he stated that holding someone in prolonged detention while delaying their case indefinitely is wrong. He acknowledged the concerns surrounding the case but insisted that avoiding the issue won’t solve it.

Drawing from his own experience, Sani recalled the pain and isolation of imprisonment, stressing that only those who have been in a cell truly understand what it feels like.


 

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Former Norwich and Maidstone Midfielder Devonte Aransibia Passes Away at 26

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Former Norwich City and Maidstone United midfielder, Devonte Aransibia, has passed away at the age of 26. His family confirmed the heartbreaking news on Tuesday.

Aransibia started his football journey with Norwich, playing for their youth teams, but he never made it into the first team. He later moved to non-league football, featuring for clubs like Potters Bar, Royston Town, Chelmsford, and Welling.

He was a key part of Maidstone United’s memorable FA Cup run last season, helping them secure a famous victory over Ipswich Town on their way to the fifth round.

Following his passing, his family has set up a GoFundMe page and shared an emotional tribute.

“With heavy hearts, we come together to honour Dev— a loving partner, devoted father, cherished son, and dear friend,” they wrote. “He was the embodiment of kindness and compassion, always ready with a warm smile.

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“His infectious laughter and generous spirit lit up every room, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.

“Beyond his loving nature, Dev was a talented footballer whose passion and drive took him to great heights on the pitch.”


 

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Tuface Makes Unexpected Appearance at Edo State Assembly

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Tuface’s surprise visit to the Edo State Assembly has set social media buzzing, especially as rumors of his divorce from Annie continue to swirl.

The singer’s unexpected appearance on Monday brought controversy, with many speculating about his alleged relationship with a female lawmaker.

His arrival reportedly caused a brief disruption, drawing the attention of lawmakers and their aides.

While the reason for his visit remains unclear, opinions are divided. Some believe it’s linked to his rumored romance, while others suspect a political motive.


 

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