The new managing director of Niger Development Commission (NDDC), Nsima Ekere, says he is horrified and shocked at the mass death in Uyo, his home state capital, Akwa Ibom, following collapse of a church building.
Ekere, a former deputy governor of the state and a professional in the building industry, has however demanded for full enforcement of building regulations at all times because faulty structures can only cause mass death.
In a statement he endorsed in apparent shock, Ekere expressed deep concern as a building professional, saying such an accident should not had occurred in the first place.
“I believe government should leave no stone unturned in identifying those whose actions or inactions are found to have contributed to this sad accident. I believe all relevant government agencies, not just in Akwa Ibom, but in all states of the Niger Delta region and Federal Republic of Nigeria, should ensure, at all times, that proper and appropriate regulations, measures and standards are always put in place and adhered to in construction and physical infrastructure projects, because, as this has shown, such negligence or culpability may result in the avoidable loss of lives and property,” he said.
He went on: “We must enforce these regulations. We must make our buildings safe. We must provide quality projects for our people. This must never happen to us again!”
Saying he just learnt of the tragic incident that took place at the Reigners Bible Church, Uyo, while thousands of worshippers were inside, the former deputy governor sent his deepest concerns, sympathies and condolences to the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel, who he said was inside the church at the time. “I thank God for His mercies on the Governor and on so many other worshippers who survived the gruesome accident.”
Describing the incident as terrifying and saddening, the MD condoled the families affected and the head of the ruined church, an apostle, Akan Weeks, and those languishing in various hospitals.
“At a time such as this, when Christians all over the world are preparing to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, I call on all Christians and non-Christians, both in Akwa Ibom state and the rest of the country, to be more fervent in prayers to God, so that this season will not be one of tears and sorrow, but would truly be one of peace, joy, charity and goodwill to all men”, he said.
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