Hotel Collapse in Edo State Claims Owner’s Life, Raises Concerns Over Construction Standards
A tragic incident occurred in the Idumoza Community of Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, when a hotel under construction collapsed on Friday, August 1, 2025, killing its owner, identified as Harrison Isesere. The collapse has sparked concerns about the use of substandard materials and lack of professional oversight in construction projects across Nigeria.
According to eyewitnesses, the one-storey building, intended to be a hotel, gave way suddenly while Isesere was inside inspecting the ongoing work. His body was recovered from the rubble on Sunday morning, August 3, after rescue efforts by community members and emergency responders. Over 20 workers present at the site narrowly escaped death, though some sustained minor injuries, which were treated with assistance from locals before medical aid arrived.
Residents and neighbors expressed grief over the incident, with many attributing the collapse to the use of inferior materials. Andrew Inegbebor, a local resident, told journalists that Isesere had been repeatedly warned about the quality of materials used. “He used 12mm rods instead of the recommended 16mm for the pillars, and there were no base baskets at the foundation. There was no engineer on site,” Inegbebor said, highlighting the absence of professional supervision as a critical factor in the tragedy.
The collapse has reignited discussions about the recurring issue of building failures in Nigeria, often linked to substandard materials, poor workmanship, and inadequate regulatory enforcement. Community members described the incident as a preventable tragedy, noting that Isesere, who reportedly managed the construction himself, disregarded advice to adhere to engineering standards.
When contacted, Moses Yamu, spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, stated that he had not yet received a brief from the Uromi Police Division regarding the incident, and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the collapse.
The Idumoza community, still reeling from the loss, has called for stricter regulations and oversight in construction projects to prevent future tragedies. The incident underscores the broader challenges facing Nigeria’s construction sector, with stakeholders urging authorities to enforce building codes and ensure qualified professionals oversee projects.
Governor Monday Okpebholo has yet to issue an official statement on the collapse, but the incident adds to ongoing concerns about infrastructure safety in Edo State, particularly in Uromi, which has faced other challenges, including poor road conditions and security issues.
As investigations continue, the community mourns the loss of Harrison Isesere, described as a would-be investor whose death has left a void in the area. Residents are calling for swift action to address systemic issues in construction practices to ensure such tragedies are not repeated.
About The Author
