NDMA Orders Immediate Evacuation of Unsafe Building in Freetown
By: Fatmata Lebbie
The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has issued an urgent evacuation order for a structurally unsafe two-storey building at 27 Garrison Street in Freetown’s Central Business District.
The building, owned by Dr. Onodi William, who resides in Denmark, has partially collapsed, with deep cracks posing a severe risk to occupants and pedestrians.
The structure houses multiple businesses, including a stationery shop, a cafe, three stores, and twelve smaller shops. In response to the imminent danger, the NDMA has mandated an immediate evacuation to prevent injuries or fatalities.
Maada Salia, NDMA’s Director of Risk Reduction and Preparedness, warned that the building could collapse at any time. Mohamed L. Bah, NDMA’s Director of Communications, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to proactive disaster management and urged compliance with the evacuation order.
Sallieu Kargbo, a shop owner and caretaker of the building, confirmed that all business owners would comply with the directive.
The NDMA, in collaboration with the Freetown City Council and other authorities, will determine whether the building requires demolition or further securing. Officials stress the need for regular building inspections to prevent similar incidents and encourage the public to report unsafe structures.
The agency continues to prioritize public safety and urges swift action to mitigate risks associated with deteriorating buildings.
