In a shocking incident, a seven-storey building under construction collapsed in the high-end Banana Island area of Ikoyi, Lagos. According to the Coordinator of the Lagos Territorial Office of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Ibrahim Farinloye, several workers are currently trapped inside the rubble. The agency has mobilised its staff and other first responders to the site for rescue operations.
While some workers were able to escape the collapsing building by jumping from the top floor, others were not so lucky. The Lagos State Government has launched an investigation into the incident, stating that the building in question was unapproved.
According to the deputy director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mukaila Sanusi, few victims who sustained injuries were being treated. He also mentioned that no fatalities were reported. The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Engr. Tayo Bamgbose-Martins, was immediately on site to assess the situation and flag-off the investigation.
This unfortunate incident occurred while casting was being done. The Lagos State Government has urged members of the public to remain calm and expect further information from the ministry as they learn more. It is important to note that incidents of building collapses have become increasingly common in Nigeria, with many of them caused by poor construction standards and the use of substandard materials.
The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to enforcing building regulations and taking decisive action against those who violate them. In conclusion, this tragic incident underscores the need for stricter regulations and enforcement to ensure the safety of citizens and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.