Building Collapse: Union Seeks Dissolution Of SON

Disturbed by the incessant incidents of building collapse in the country, the Iron Rod and Steel Distributors Employers Union of Nigeria (IRSDEUN) has called on the federal government to dissolve the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON).

The union opined that the dissolution of SON would bring about a lasting solution to the recurring incidents of building collapses across the country.

The national president of the union, Chief Gbenga Awoyale, made the appeal in a statement he made available to LEADERSHIP yesterday.

“The call comes in the wake of SON’s recent reversal of its decision to shut down 18 companies implicated in the production and distribution of substandard building materials, particularly iron rod manufacturers. The reversal, reportedly influenced by the Ministry of Trade and Industry, has sparked widespread criticism and concern over the government’s commitment to enforcing quality standards in the construction industry,” Awoye said.

Awoyale expressed concern over the persistent issue of substandard materials, which he said has led to building collapse and the loss of numerous lives.

He cited at least three building collapses in different states within January 2025, describing the incidents as “avoidable tragedies.”

“This is a national embarrassment and a clear indication that the regulatory bodies are failing in their duties,” Awoyale stated.

“The government must take decisive action to prevent further loss of lives and property. Dissolving SON and restructuring the regulatory framework is the only way to ensure accountability and enforce standards,” he posited.

While noting  that the Act establishing SON includes a provision mandating the prosecution of companies found guilty of producing substandard materials, Awoyale lamented that  this law is rarely enforced by the regulatory agency.

“There is a section in the Act that established SON which stipulates the prosecution of any company found wanting in the production of substandard materials. Unfortunately, this law is not being implemented. Some corrupt officials within the system allow these perpetrators to buy their way out, thereby perpetuating this dangerous cycle,” Awoyale explained.

He recalled that the union had made similar appeal in 2024, lamenting that,” no concrete action was taken by the government. The lack of effective oversight has allowed unscrupulous companies to continue producing substandard materials, which are sold domestically, while higher-quality products are exported to neighbouring countries with stricter regulations.”