Tragedy struck around 3 p.m. on Wednesday, April 12, 2023, when a seven-storey building under construction collapsed at First Avenue in the upscale area of Banana Island, situated in Ikoyi, Lagos.
In a viral video shared by Punch, the building appeared to give way without warning while construction workers were seen walking atop the uncompleted structure seconds before the collapse. Here’s what we’ve gathered so far.
Have there been any casualties?
Vanguard reported that an undisclosed number of people remained trapped underneath the rubble. Eyewitnesses said people jumped off the building before its collapse while kids walking around the area narrowly escaped death. The DG/CEO of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) revealed on his Twitter page that rescue operations were ongoing.
According to Punch, seven people have been rescued while the search continues. However, an undisclosed number of people have suffered injuries to varying degrees.
Which agencies have responded?
The Lagos Fire Service and Rescue Service spokesperson, Amodu Shakiri, confirmed the incident. He said, “We got a call around 3:58 pm. We are currently trying to ascertain the claim that no one was under the rubble.”
The Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Lagos State government, Mukaila Sanusi, said:
“An unapproved seven-floor building under construction collapsed in Banana Island, Lagos State, this evening. “Few who sustained injuries are being treated. There is no fatality. This unfortunate incident happened while casting was being done.
“The Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Engr. Tayo Bamgbose-Martins, was immediately on site to assess the situation and flag off an investigation.
“We ask members of the public to remain calm and expect further information from the ministry as we know more.”
LASEMA also said there were no lives lost.
What led to the collapse?
In a statement, the Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development said the collapsed building didn’t have a permit, suggesting it was built without regard to the state’s building code. LASEMA claimed the building collapsed because a truck ran into the building.
What next?
The Lagos state government has called for calm, saying there’s an investigation into the collapse. In the meantime, here is a list of Lagos state emergency lines should you know anyone directly impacted by the collapse. We will keep you updated as the story unfolds.
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