Tragedy struck early Saturday morning when a two-storey building collapsed on Oremeta Street in the Ojodu-Berger area of Lagos State, leaving one person dead and 13 others rescued from the rubble.
Confirming the situation, Ibrahim Farinloye, South-West Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), revealed that 13 people were rescued alive, while one adult was confirmed dead. Rescue operations remain in progress, and the cause of the collapse is yet to be officially established.
In response, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) advised residents to remain calm and allow emergency personnel to carry out their duties without interference. Dr. Damilola Oke-Osanyitolu, Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, assured the public that the agency is fully mobilized under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive.
“We’ve activated the Lagos State emergency response plan. Our team is working carefully and thoroughly, and we will reach ground zero to ensure no one is left behind,” Oke-Osanyitolu stated.
Local concerns have emerged over the structural integrity of the building. A resident, who chose to remain anonymous, attributed the collapse to substandard construction practices, particularly the recent addition of a floor believed to have weakened the foundation.
“There were obvious warning signs that the structure wasn’t stable, especially with the ongoing renovations. The contractor should have exercised more caution,” the resident remarked, calling for stricter oversight and enforcement of building regulations across the state.
Authorities are expected to release a detailed report once the rescue operation concludes.
