Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti has ordered strict supervision and certification of building construction by relevant government agencies to forestall future building collapse in the state.

Mr Oyebanji, represented by Deputy Governor Monisade Afuye, issued the order on Sunday during a visit to the scene of a building collapse in Ijero-Ekiti.

He also visited the victims of the incident, who were receiving medical treatment at the Ijero General Hospital, Ijero-Ekiti, where he sympathised with them.

Six persons sustained injuries when an event centre collapsed in Ijero-Ekiti, Ijero Local Government Area, on Saturday.

The governor directed all government agencies to ensure that all public buildings of that nature were properly supervised and certified at every stage to avoid unwarranted fatalities.

He expressed deep concern over the high degrees of injuries sustained by the victims.

Mr Oyebanji said the incident could have been averted “if proper building scrutinies and compliance with specifications were carried out by government agencies.”

He, therefore, warned that situations like that should not be allowed to recur in the state.

“We thank God that no life was lost, but as a responsible government, we won’t wait until people die before taking actions that can safeguard their lives.

“That is why it is most expedient that all government agencies must be responsive to their duties at all times,” Mr Oyebanji said.

The permanent secretary, Ekiti State Emergency Management Agency, Olajide Borode, also on the entourage, said the men of fire services were immediately deployed on the spot for rescue operation when he received a distress call.

(NAN)