Rivers building collapse: Julius Berger steps in as rescue efforts intensify

Rescue operations intensified on Thursday in Port Harcourt after the collapse of a 5‑storey building under construction along Dr Peter Odili Road near Eterna Filling Station.

Leading construction company, Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, other construction firms and government agencies stepped in to support emergency efforts.

The structure collapsed at about 10:30am on Wednesday, trapping an unspecified number of construction workers and leaving residents of the Rivers State capital in shock.

Eyewitnesses said several labourers were working in and around the building when it suddenly gave way.

Rescue efforts commenced immediately, with local residents, emergency responders, and security personnel working collaboratively to reach victims buried under the debris.

By Wednesday evening, three individuals had been rescued alive, while intensive search efforts continued to locate others.

Julius Berger Nigeria PLC played a critical role in the operations, deploying a range of heavy-duty and specialised equipment to support the rescue mission.

The company also provided cutting and breaking tools, such as hydraulic breakers and concrete cutters, to carefully dismantle sections of the collapsed structure.

In addition, lighting equipment and power generators were deployed to sustain operations into the night, while safety gear supported rescue personnel working in hazardous conditions.

Speaking on the company’s involvement, Julius Berger’s Regional Manager for South-South, Engr. Rimon Marisho reaffirmed the firm’s commitment to public safety and community support.

Meanwhile, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has ordered the complete closure of the site of a five-storey building that collapsed on Wednesday in Port Harcourt.

Speaking during an inspection visit to the site on Thursday, Fubara said the area would remain sealed until the government determines the cause of the collapse.

The governor said preliminary findings indicated that the developer repeatedly prevented state officials from inspecting the project and failed to comply with building regulations.

Fubara vowed that a thorough investigation would be conducted to establish the cause of the collapse and prevent a recurrence.

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