The Imo State Government has sealed off Everyday Supermarket and adjacent businesses situated in the Ikenegbu axis of Owerri, the state capital.
The decision stemmed from concerns raised by Imo-based structural engineer, Kingsley Onwubiko, regarding structural deficiencies observed at the plaza.
Citing the paramount need to prioritize public safety, the government swiftly responded by sealing the plaza pending a comprehensive integrity test and possible reinforcement of the buildings.
Upon our reporter’s visit to the site, it was evident that officials from the Owerri Capital Development Authority (OCDA) had sealed off the entire premises and suspended all business activities within the plaza.
An anonymous official from the agency affirmed that the directive to seal the plaza emanated from Governor Hope Uzodinma himself, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to preventing any incidents of building collapse that could result in loss of life or property.
The engineer who initially flagged the structural concerns, Kingsley Onwubiko, commended the government’s swift response, hailing the decision to seal the property pending a thorough integrity assessment.
“Taking proactive measures such as sealing off the property and conducting a comprehensive integrity test is paramount,” remarked Onwubiko.
“Following the assessment, appropriate measures such as restructuring or, if necessary, demolition of the compromised sections should be undertaken to mitigate risks and safeguard lives and property.”he said.
Furthermore, Onwubiko reiterated his team’s commitment to identifying and addressing similar structural anomalies across the state, underscoring the importance of proactive intervention to preempt potential hazards.
