In the wake of the tragedy that took place at the Reigners Bible Church Int’l Inc, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has cautioned churches across the country not to worship in uncompleted buildings.

According to a statement signed by the General Secretary of the body, Rev Dr Musa Asake, CAN lamented the disaster and tasked every Christian to identify with the victims through prayers, gifts and condolence visits.

It thereafter urged churches to stop “the idea of holding worship service inside buildings under construction to avoid a repeat of the avoidable tragedy”.

The statement read:

“We identify with the victims of the tragedy, we pray for their quick recovery as we are asking God to console and comfort all the bereaved. It is very unfortunate that the devil struck when the whole world is getting ready for the celebration of the Birth of the Saviour, Jesus Christ, who came to destroy the work of the devil.

 “We thank God that His Excellency, Governor Udom Emmanuel, who himself narrowly escaped with his life in the tragedy and we welcome his prompt intervention when he said the state government will hold an inquiry to investigate if anyone compromised building standards”.

It is no more news that buildings often collapse in the country as a result of contractors using sub-standard materials coupled with lack of building approvals or a thorough supervision by the relevant agencies.

 “We call on the Society of Engineers and other relevant bodies to rise up to the menace of building with sub-standard materials in Nigeria which have led to demise of thousands of innocent people. Until severe sanctioned are met on those who are responsible, they may not be able to stop their satanic antics.