The Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA) has sealed a three-storey building located at No. 20, Kadunna by Uzuakoli Road, Umuahia, over serious structural defects that pose a threat to public safety.
Speaking during the enforcement exercise, the General Manager of UCDA, Mr. Kingsley Agomoh, ordered all occupants of the building to vacate the premises immediately, stressing that the structure is no longer safe for human habitation.
Mr. Agomoh explained that the decision to seal the building was taken as a proactive measure to avert possible loss of lives and property, noting that preliminary assessments revealed signs of structural weakness capable of leading to collapse if ignored.
He further disclosed that an integrity test would be carried out on the building to determine the extent of the defects and ascertain whether the structure can be rehabilitated or would require total demolition.
The UCDA boss reiterated the Authority’s commitment to enforcing building regulations within the Umuahia capital territory, warning developers and property owners against cutting corners during construction. He emphasized that the agency would not hesitate to take decisive action against any structure found to be unsafe, in line with its mandate to ensure orderly development and protect residents.
Residents and property owners were also advised to subject their buildings to regular structural assessments and obtain necessary approvals to avoid similar sanctions.
