Lawmaker Demands Probe Of Gombe Assembly Building Collapse

Member of the Gombe State House of Assembly, Hon. Mustapha Usman Hassan, has called for a comprehensive and independent investigation into the collapse of a section of the entrance canopy at the New Gombe State House of Assembly Complex, describing the incident as a tragedy that demands accountability.

In a statement, Hassan expressed deep sorrow over the loss of one life and the injuries sustained by several others when part of the structure under construction collapsed.

He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased and prayed for the speedy recovery of those receiving treatment.

“The loss of a life in a project of such public importance is deeply painful. My thoughts and prayers are with the affected families during this difficult time,” he said.

The lawmaker noted that the complex, awarded in June 2024 at the sum of ₦14.05 billion, is scheduled for completion in January 2027.

According to him, considering the huge public investment and the strategic importance of the project to the state’s democratic institutions, every phase of construction must adhere to the highest engineering, safety and quality standards.

Hassan commended emergency responders, security agencies, healthcare workers and volunteers for their swift response in rescuing victims and providing immediate medical attention.

He stressed that the incident underscored the need for a transparent, professional and independent technical investigation to establish both the immediate and underlying causes of the structural failure.

The lawmaker said the investigation should examine all relevant project documents, including architectural and structural drawings, engineering calculations, soil test reports, inspection records and construction logs.

He further recommended that forensic engineers compare the completed work with the approved design, determine whether any unauthorized alterations were made, conduct laboratory tests on construction materials such as concrete and reinforcement steel, and carry out detailed structural analyses to ascertain whether the structure was subjected to loads beyond its design capacity.

Hassan maintained that if negligence, professional misconduct or violations of approved engineering and safety standards are established, those responsible should be held accountable in accordance with the law.

He emphasised that his call is not intended to politicise the incident or apportion blame but to promote accountability, transparency and the protection of lives.

“The foremost responsibility of every government is the protection of lives and property. Issues concerning public safety should unite us rather than divide us,” he stated.

The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to promoting transparency, accountability and strict compliance with engineering, procurement and construction standards in public infrastructure projects, insisting that government projects must deliver quality, durability, safety and value for public funds.

He also urged residents to remain calm and avoid speculation while the technical investigation ordered by the Gombe State Government is ongoing.

Hassan appealed to contractors, consultants, supervising engineers and regulatory authorities to cooperate fully with investigators to ensure a credible assessment of the project.

He further called for the findings of the investigation to be made public and for all recommendations to be fully implemented to strengthen quality assurance, improve regulatory oversight and prevent similar incidents in future public infrastructure projects.

The lawmaker reaffirmed his solidarity with the people of Gombe State and expressed hope that the Assembly Complex would ultimately be completed as a safe, durable and world-class legislative facility.

He prayed for Almighty Allah to grant eternal rest to the deceased, speedy recovery to the injured and continued peace and progress for Gombe State.