Nigerian Institution of Structural Engineers has called for prosecution of promoters of failed buildings in order to tackle the incessant collapse.
The president of the institution, Peter IgbiniJesu, gave the urge Monday while during a chat with journalists at the institution’s yearly conference scheduled for Lagos Tuesday, explaining that the problem of structural collapse would persist if the government does not punish promoters for negligence.
He bemoaned that the menace has become a monster, leading to loss of lives and property.
Government, IgbiniJesu said, must go beyond mere confiscation of affected buildings to actual prosecution and jailing of identified culprits.
He noted that non-use of registered professionals has been the main reason behind the unsavoury incidents.
He said the two-day conference, with the theme, ‘Emerging Tasks for Structural Engineering Practice in Nigeria’, would serve as a platform for professionals in the built environment to share knowledge, insights and best practices in the ever-evolving domain of structural engineering.
The NistructE boss disclosed that the conference, to be declared open by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, would strengthen collaboration, inspire new ideas and empower structural engineers to tackle the complex challenges, by sharing experiences and ensuring the safety and resilience of the nation’s built industry.
Also, immediate past president of the body, Dr. Kehinde Osifala, blamed the slow pace of judicial process on lack of prosecution of those responsible for the unwholesome development.
Commending the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria’s new law meant to address construction failures, prevent loss of life and property, he lamented that the rule does not make room for prosecution of culprits.
Osifala agitated synergy between structural engineers and relevant agencies of government for more positive results.
