The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for La Nkwantanang–Madina, Ibrahim Fuseini Faila, has disclosed that the owner of the building that collapsed at Adenta New Site will be arrested for allegedly ignoring a stop-work order issued by the Assembly.
According to the MCE, investigations have revealed that the developer was originally granted approval to construct only a single-storey building but proceeded with additional floors despite being directed to halt the project.
Speaking to the media, Mr. Faila said he contacted the Assembly’s engineer following the incident and was informed that the owner had previously been warned against extending the structure beyond the approved design.
“I called the engineer and he confirmed that the owner had already been stopped from constructing beyond the approved single-storey building. The question is, on what grounds was he proceeding to add another floor?” he questioned.
He alleged that despite the directive, the developer continued construction without authorization.
“He refused to listen. Somehow, he found his own means to continue with the project. We are now looking for him and he will be arrested. We will not spare him. The law must bite,” the MCE stated.
Mr. Faila revealed that the Assembly issued the stop-work order about a year ago, but the owner allegedly disregarded it and continued building.
He noted that while some flooding incidents recorded in parts of Accra and other low-lying communities may be linked to natural factors, the collapse of the Adenta building appeared to be a preventable tragedy.
According to him, strict compliance with building regulations and proper supervision could have averted the disaster.
The MCE further indicated that the owner would be held financially responsible for the cost of clearing the debris and other expenses incurred as a result of the collapse.
“It is the owner’s negligence that has caused this situation. We will ensure he bears the cost of clearing the debris and any other expenses incurred by the Assembly,” he said.
Mr. Faila added that the Assembly has the developer’s details and is working closely with the police to locate, arrest and prosecute him.
The building collapsed during a heavy downpour on Wednesday evening, claiming the life of 35-year-old Margaret Kpeli and leaving several others injured.
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