Ogun declares war on building collapse as regulators, artisans unite in Ilaro

As part of efforts to avert building collapse and combat the use of substandard building materials, the Ogun State Building Production Management Authority, OGBPMA, and the Building Collapse Prevention Guild, BCPG, have brought bricklayers, carpenters, welders, architects, engineers, builders, community leaders and other stakeholders together at a sensitisation programme in Ilaro.

The Joint Building Safety Awareness Programme, themed “Building Safe, Compliant and Quality Structures,” which took place at the Oronna Hall, pushed for strict adherence to approved plans, certified professionals and State building regulations.

Speaking during the programme, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, TPl Abiola Ayodele, urged participants and the public to engage the services of qualified professionals to comply with the state’s building regulations, warning that any detected violation would attract stiff penalties.

He noted that the state government frowns at any action that could lead to building collapse, which could ultimately claim lives and destroy properties.

The Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, represented by the Aguro of Ilaro and Secretary, Olu-Ilaro-In-Council, Chief Ayo Dawotola, signalled the traditional institution’s concern for the safety of lives and property in communities, enjoining all present to inform other members of their various associations and groups to adhere strictly to the standards as agreed at the forum.

The Acting General Manager, OGBPMA, Builder Titilayo Oladogbon, took participants through the Authority’s expectations and the processes involved in building compliance, disclosing that the Ogun State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with BCPG, a non-governmental organisation, to support the supervision of construction across the State.

The State Chairman of BCPG, Builder Ogunsola Adedayo, explained the Guild’s role in curbing collapses and promoting quality construction.

 He said its members were spread across the zones and work alongside OGBPMA staff and the District and Zonal Town Planning Officers to curb recurring collapses caused by non-conformity with standards.

Other professionals in the Authority encouraged builders and property owners to “Build Right” using approved building plans, engaging certified professionals and complying with OGBPMA regulations, urging property owners to obtain proper Building Authorisation letter and stage certification before and during construction.

Stakeholders used the forum to appeal to the government to make assessment fees and other levies affordable for all, arguing that high charges push people to avoid building permits and other statutory payments, a practice that had undermined the very safety issue the programme sought to promote.