A seven-storey building, which collapsed yesterday in Banana Island, Ikoyi area of Lagos State with an unspecified number of workers trapped. According to the Guardian the building, under construction, came down at about 5:00 p.m., however, the cause of the collapse could not be ascertained at press time.
A source said while it remains unclear what triggered the collapse, concreting was ongoing on the sixth floor before the collapse. A statement, by the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), said workers were trapped in the building, while its officials are mobilising the response team to rescue trapped victims.
Also, an official of Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), who confirmed the incident to newsmmen, said a rescue operation has started, but could not give further details.
Meanwhile, Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA), has mobilised to the scene of the collapse for rescue operation. Confirming the incident, Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, Dr. Oluwafemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said: “I can confirm the incident, it’s a seven-storey building. I am here with my men.”
When reached for comment, the General manager, Banana Island Property Owners & Residents Association, Lagos (BIPORAL), Sola Odukoya, said: “I am in the middle of something, I will call you back.”
Meanwhile, Lagos State government said it is investigating the unapproved collapsed building. Deputy Director, Public Affairs, Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Mukaila Sanusi, in a statement, said few people, who sustained injuries are being treated. He said: “ There is no fatality. This is unfortunate incident happened while casting was being done.”
The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Tayo Bamgbose-Martins, visited the site to assess the situation and flag-off investigation. “We ask members of the public to remain calm and expect further information from the ministry, as we know more,” he said.
