Officials from the Anambra State Materials Testing Laboratory have taken samples from the site of the collapsed building at Ndiagu Ikenga Ogidi, for testing to determine the actual cause of the incident.
According to eye witnesses, the two story building collapsed at Ikenga Ogidi, Idemili Local Government Area, two days ago, killing five laborers.
The leader of the team from the Testing Laboratory, Mr. Noel Ogboji, said that from the samples collected, suspicion of sub-standard materials, weak foundation and poor re-reinforcement are high.
The team leader stated he suspected that the materials used are not suitable for the kind of structure put up, coupled with weak foundation and poor re-reinforcement.
He warned people embarking on building projects, especially high rise buildings, should always involve the Testing laboratory to assist in determining the soil texture, before they embark on foundation laying so as to use the right kind of materials and avoid death through building collapse.
Residents reported that the owner of the building had hurriedly cleared the debris probably to escape justice.
They said the house had defects from day one which they have complained to the owner severally.
A resident of the area, Mr Obiwenite Okoye recalled that the building had been marked by the Physical Planning Board to stop further construction but it was not heeded.