Building collapse: LASG asks Guild to independently monitor construction sites for whistleblowing

*Photo: A collapsed building in Lagos*

The Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development has tasked the Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) with whistleblowing on illegal building construction in the State.

The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, who gave the charge during the courtesy visit of the Building Collapse Prevention Guild, Lagos Chapter to the Ministry on Wednesday, said that BCPG was an important stakeholder whose collaborative efforts would go a long way in preventing building collapse.

He urged the Guild to step up its watchdog activities by monitoring building construction sites for infractions, which should be promptly reported to the Ministry for appropriate action.

“We will appreciate it if you carry out independent monitoring of construction sites and report any observed illegality or infraction as we can best maintain a sustainable built environment through proper surveillance of the built environment and whistle-blowing.

“It is important to emulate the developed world, which thrives on whistle-blowing to secure the environment and keep wrongdoers at bay,” he said.

He added that the government, in its determination to stop building collapse, was very desirous of maintaining alliances with professional associations such as the BCPG.

He said that the Certified Accreditor Programme (CAP), the new initiative of the Lagos State Government to fast-track building plan approval and enhance the staging of building construction works, through the involvement of tested and trusted private professionals, had its roots in the government’s readiness to build an alliance with professionals for the good of the physical environment.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Engr. Oluwole Sotire noted that the training and certification of artisans, who are an important factor in building collapse prevention, would be revisited to promote building rights.

The National President, BCPG, Tpl. Sulaimon Yusuf applauded the request of the Ministry and urged for prompt feedback when any report was made by members of the association.

The Chairman, BCPG,  Lagos State, Tpl. Joseph Akande commended the Certified Accreditor Programme (CAP) initiative, adding that its introduction would instill sanity and confidence in the sector.

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