Tragedy struck Idumoza community in Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, as a hotel under construction collapsed, killing its owner, Mr. Andrew Isesere.
The incident, which occurred on Friday, left the businessman trapped under the rubble. His remains were recovered on Sunday morning, according to eyewitnesses.
Over 20 construction workers at the site reportedly escaped unhurt. Residents alleged that the collapse was caused by the use of substandard building materials.
“The owner was told he was using low-quality material. He used 12mm instead of 16mm rods for the pillars. There was no base basket at the pillars. Look at the result,” said a neighbour, Mr. Andrew Inegbebor.
Eyewitnesses further claimed that no certified engineer supervised the construction, and the deceased personally oversaw the project.
When contacted, the spokesman of the Edo State Police Command, SP Moses Yamu, said he had yet to receive a detailed briefing from the Divisional Police Officer in Uromi.
