**Tenant Accuses Nicosia EOA of Inaction Over Dangerous Building**
A businessman renting a store in the former Othello cinema building in Engomi, Nicosia, has raised serious concerns regarding the inaction of the Nicosia district local government organization (EOA) concerning a structure classified as dangerous. Vasilis Hadjigeorgiou, the director of the company operating the store, has claimed that despite multiple warnings and correspondence, the EOA has failed to take substantial measures to address the risks associated with the building.
Hadjigeorgiou's grievances were formally communicated to the EOA in a letter where he expressed frustration over the lack of response to his concerns. He recounted a meeting with an EOA official, during which he was reportedly told that the building should be left to "collapse on its own and be demolished." This statement has heightened Hadjigeorgiou's fears for the safety of his staff and customers, as the building has been deemed hazardous since it was first classified as such on October 14, 2025. At that time, the EOA threatened to impose a fine if repair works did not commence within six weeks.
Despite subsequent warnings issued on March 12 and April 30, 2026, Hadjigeorgiou noted that no fines have been levied by the competent authority. Although the building has been fenced off and marked with signs indicating its dangerous status, Hadjigeorgiou pointed out that staff and customers continue to access the store, exposing them to daily risks.
In light of the ongoing situation, Hadjigeorgiou is demanding the immediate imposition of the fine and prompt action to eliminate the hazards posed by the building. He has previously submitted a study outlining necessary repair steps, a timeline, and alternative scenarios, but claims that this has gone unanswered by the EOA. He has indicated that he may pursue legal action to compel the authorities to act and has copied his complaint to the human rights commissioner, Maria Stylianou-Lottides, as well as the independent anti-corruption authority.
In response to the allegations, Constantinos Yiorkadjis, president of the Nicosia EOA, acknowledged the situation and stated that the organization is aware of the building's condition. He assured that the EOA intends to secure parts of the building and will continue to communicate with the owner regarding the necessary actions.
A technical study conducted earlier this year documented extensive structural damage to the building, revealing that the concrete was below permissible limits and recommending demolition. The Nicosia municipality has also described the structure as a "significant health hazard," citing issues such as accumulated rubbish, flammable materials, dead animals, faeces, stagnant water on the roof, and a collapsed ceiling in one of the former screening rooms, along with a flea infestation.
While the majority owner, who holds over 70 percent of the building, has initiated demolition procedures, progress has reportedly stalled. Constantinos Constantis, president of the technical chamber (Etek), has criticized the authorities for their procrastination, emphasizing the need for mandatory structural inspections to prevent such situations from escalating.
Hadjigeorgiou has also raised concerns that the structural study conducted by the EOA only addressed the former cinema areas and did not encompass the shops at the front of the building. This has led to questions about the adequacy of the assessments being carried out.
Legislation aimed at strengthening building safety oversight has been delayed since 2023, with parliament still awaiting its resubmission following consultations with various stakeholders. The Nicosia EOA is currently awaiting €2 million in funds from the interior ministry, which has been approved to address dangerous buildings, including the Othello cinema structure.
According to the latest district government register, there are 656 dangerous buildings across the Nicosia district, with 171 of these located within the municipal boundaries of the capital. Additionally, 55 buildings have been classified as requiring repairs, with another 28 buildings identified within the city that also need attention.
As the situation unfolds, the community and local authorities remain watchful, with calls for more proactive measures to ensure the safety of residents and businesses in the area.