The Special Adviser to the Governor of Cross River State on Public Utilities, Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe, has commended the management of NAKS Hotel, Calabar, for demonstrating responsibility by carrying out a controlled demolition of a structurally unsafe two-storey building within its premises.
The incident occurred at about 1:30 AM on August 10, 2025, when the building under construction was deliberately dismantled following internal safety assessments that confirmed critical structural deficiencies. The exercise, which was monitored under controlled conditions, recorded no fatalities, with only one demolition crew member sustaining minor injuries and receiving prompt medical care.
In response to the event, a multidisciplinary inspection team comprising the Office of the Special Adviser, the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) Calabar Branch, the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE), the Nigerian Institution of Safety Engineers (NISafetyE), and the Nigerian Institution of Geotechnical Engineers (NIGE) visited the site the same day to verify circumstances surrounding the collapse and to provide technical recommendations.
Findings from Fredegu Geotechnical Services, which conducted structural tests, revealed the use of substandard materials, including low-strength concrete and undersized reinforcement bars, which failed to meet acceptable engineering standards. These deficiencies, according to the report, justified the decision to pull down the structure to prevent future disaster.
Speaking during the inspection, Engr. Dr. Jerome Egbe stressed that while risks were associated with the nighttime demolition, the prompt action by NAKS Hotel helped avert a more tragic outcome.
He emphasized that the case underscores the need for strict compliance with building codes, adequate supervision, and stronger enforcement mechanisms to safeguard lives and property.
The General Manager of NAKS Hotel, Mr. Ntongha Martins, explained that the demolition was carried out in good faith after internal assessments declared the structure unsafe for its intended use.
He noted that the hotel prioritized public safety above all else and ensured that all necessary precautions were taken to minimize impact on the environment and neighboring structures.
Authorities have since called for shared responsibility among contractors, regulatory agencies, and property developers in ensuring quality control and adherence to standards. Experts agree that NAKS Hotel’s decision to dismantle the defective structure represents a responsible corporate action and should serve as an example to other property owners in the state.
The Cross River State Government and professional bodies have pledged to work together to strengthen regulatory oversight, introduce stricter demolition permit procedures, and promote public awareness on safe construction practices.
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