The Municipal Chief Executive for La Nkwantanang–Madina, Ibrahim Fuseini Faila, has announced that the owner of the building that collapsed at Adenta will face arrest for allegedly disregarding a directive from the Assembly to halt construction works.

Speaking to journalists after the incident, Mr. Faila disclosed that the developer had received approval to construct only a single-storey building but reportedly continued with additional works in violation of the permit granted by the Assembly.

According to the MCE, consultations with technical officers revealed that the developer had earlier been instructed to stop work after attempting to build beyond the approved design.

He questioned why the owner proceeded with the project despite the restrictions imposed by the Assembly.

Mr. Faila alleged that the developer ignored official directives and continued construction without authorisation, a move he said contributed to the unfortunate collapse.

He stressed that efforts are underway to locate the owner, who will be handed over to law enforcement authorities for prosecution.

The MCE revealed that the Assembly had issued a stop-work notice nearly a year ago, warning the developer against continuing the project. However, he claimed the directive was not obeyed.

While acknowledging that recent heavy rains may have worsened flooding in some parts of the capital, Mr. Faila maintained that the Adenta building collapse was preventable and largely the result of non-compliance with planning regulations and construction guidelines.

He further stated that the Assembly intends to recover all costs associated with clearing the debris from the site, insisting that the developer must be held financially responsible for the consequences of the incident.

According to him, the Assembly is working closely with the police and has the necessary details to track down the owner and ensure that the matter is pursued through the appropriate legal channels.

The collapse has renewed concerns over enforcement of building regulations and adherence to approved construction permits in rapidly developing communities across the Greater Accra Region.