By Sunday Apah
The Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, Owhawha II, has called for the implementation of effective laws to tackle impostors in the engineering sector, aiming to address the increasing incidents of building collapses nationwide.
During a meeting with the National President of the Society of Engineers, Engineer Magret Oguntanla, at his palace in Otu-Jeremi, the headquarters of Ughelli South Local Government Area, Delta State, the monarch expressed his concerns.
Welcoming the National President and her team, the Okobaro of Ughievwen Kingdom, Owhawha II, expressed dismay at the rising number of building collapses in the country. He questioned why property developers opt to hire unqualified individuals as engineers to oversee construction projects.
Emphasizing the importance of strict penalties for impostors in the engineering field in line with existing laws, the Okobaro highlighted the significant role of government in curbing building collapses.
He noted that many collapsed buildings resulted from the use of substandard materials by unqualified engineers. He urged the leadership of the Nigeria Society of Engineers to engage with authorities at all levels to mandate the employment of only COREN-certified engineers for project supervision nationwide.
The Ughievwen monarch underscored the tragic loss of lives caused by building collapses and urged the Nigeria Society of Engineers to establish monitoring mechanisms to complement government initiatives in reducing such incidents across the country.
The monarch encouraged young people, especially students, to cultivate a habit of reading and consider studying engineering. He emphasized the essential role that engineers play in the advancement of every developed society.
In response, the National President of the Society of Engineers, Magret Oguntanla, expressed gratitude for the wise guidance and support of the Okobaro, which has fostered the growth of engineering practices in the kingdom.
Oguntanla praised Owhawha II as a symbol of peace and unity, highlighting the successful partnership between the NSE and the monarch that has brought about significant improvements in the socio-economic well-being of the people of Ughievwen Kingdom.
Accompanying Owhawha II during the visit were some members of the Ughievwen Traditional Council of Chiefs.
