FCT : Buildings Above 30yrs To Undergo Integrity Test

Old Buildings that have lasted for 30years and above are to undergo integrity test to forestall building collapse in the territory.

Director Department of Development Control, FCTA, Mukhtar Galadima made this known in Abuja while speaking to Journalists about some buildings in Jabi that failed the integrity tests.

Galadima said that the test would be conducted in collaboration with professional bodies and regulatory bodies in Wuse 1, Garki 1, Garki 2, and Asokoro.

He explained that the integrity test became necessary in the areas because they were mainly developed by private individuals about 30 years ago.

This he said would address the unfortunate incident that happened in Garki village, where a two-storey building collapsed, killed two persons and injured 37 others.

Galadima who noted that most of the officers that supervised the buildings in the areas have retired however, said not every building that failed the integrity test would be demolished, if the case could be remedied.

Galadima emphasized that structures that failed the integrity tests and beyond remedy would be pulled down.

“We have agreed with our colleagues, the professional and regulatory bodies and agencies to identify some structures within the city and conduct integrity tests on them”.

“The goal is to avert unforeseen circumstances like building collapse that may occur due to structural defects.we will soon be going to the field for the exercise, particularly in Garki 1, Garki 2, Wuse 1 and Asokoro. We want to be sure that the structures can stand the test of time,” Galadima said.

On the buildings located on Plot 643 Cadastral Zone Bo4, Jabi District, he said that the integrity test revealed that the building may collapse.

He said that after the failed test, the occupants of the four single-storey buildings on the plot were asked to vacate the buildings for their safety.

“It is disturbing that in spite of professional warnings, the people are still occupying the house, even going further to obtain an order of the Court to stop us from vacating them.

“Once a structure has been tested and confirmed to be deficient, people should comply and vacate the structure because anything can happen.Our concern is the safety of the individuals and their property that is why we are calling on the public to desist from such acts”.

Remi Johnson, Edited By Grace Namiji