Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged the state governors, especially the Plateau State government, to strengthen the enforcement of town planning laws to prevent a recurrence of the tragic incident of a collapsed building that claimed the lives of several students.
Akpabio made these remarks yesterday during a courtesy visit by Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, accompanied by traditional rulers, to his office.
He extended his condolences to the governor, saying, “We want to express our condolences for the building collapse. It was a horrific sight, and the building was not even constructed during your tenure. This means that you must take steps to reinforce the town planning laws and take a keen interest in the building industry.
“No sentiments should be attached. Regardless of whose interests are involved, if someone does not adhere to the rules or constructs a building on a water passage, once the foundation is questioned, such a building should be demolished.
“We are aware of what has happened in the past. The influential and powerful in society seem exempt from scrutiny when it comes to building construction out of respect for them. This should not be the case.”
Akpabio expressed continued sorrow for the loss of the students’ lives, stating, “The entire country mourns their demise. On behalf of the 10th Senate, please accept our condolences. We stand with you during this period of mourning.”
Governor Mutfwang said he the delegation was at the National Assembly to participate in the public hearing on the Nigerian Institute of Mining and Geosciences (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2024.
The bill aims to upgrade the Mining and Geoscience Institute to a fully-fledged university, and the governor expressed hope that his state would be chosen as its host.