By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, March 24,2025 – The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has ordered the urgent evacuation of a dangerously deteriorating two-storey building at 27 Garrison Street in Freetown’s Central Business District. Following a vulnerability risk assessment, the structure, owned by Denmark-based Dr. Onodi William, was deemed an imminent threat to public safety. Deep cracks and partial collapses have raised alarms about the potential for disaster.
Housing various businesses, including a café, stationery shop, stores, and twelve sub-shops, the building’s fragile state prompted NDMA officials to enforce the evacuation to prevent loss of life and property.
Maada Salia, NDMA’s Director of Risk Reduction and Preparedness, emphasized the life-threatening risks, urging occupants to prioritize safety above financial concerns.
NDMA’s Director of Communications, Mohamed L. Bah, reiterated the agency’s commitment to proactive disaster management through early warnings and preventive measures. The Freetown City Council and other authorities are now involved in determining next steps, including potential demolition or securing the premises.
Sallieu Kargbo, a shop owner and caretaker of the building, expressed gratitude for the swift intervention, assuring full compliance with the evacuation directive. NDMA has called on property owners to conduct regular assessments to ensure safety standards are met, while encouraging residents to report compromised structures for early intervention.
The agency remains dedicated to safeguarding lives and property through comprehensive disaster preparedness and response mechanisms.