Rivers State Government seals off collapsing 60-year-old building

The Rivers State Government has cordoned off a two-storey building estimated to be over 60 years old located at No. 18 Club Road in the old Port Harcourt Township after part of the structure collapsed on Friday around 7pm, injuring four persons. The incident occurred when part of the parapet fell onto the ground floor where people were gathered at a bar.

One woman sustained injuries to her head and ear, but no fatalities were reported. Following the collapse, the Rivers State Ministry of Urban Development and Physical Planning ordered the occupants to vacate the premises due to concerns about further structural failure.

Isabella Ibim, the ministry’s Press Secretary, confirmed that the commissioner visited the site on Saturday and advised against living in such old buildings. An eyewitness reported that the parapet fell unexpectedly, causing confusion among patrons.

The Rivers State Police Command, represented by spokesperson Blessing Agabe, confirmed the incident and the number of injuries, stating that an investigation has been launched.