A seven-story building under construction in the Banana Island area of Lagos State collapsed on Wednesday evening, trapping several workers. The Lagos State Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Mukaila Sanusi, confirmed the incident and noted that 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. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service also confirmed the incident, stating that they are still yet to ascertain the number of casualties.
The collapse occurred while casting was being done on the unapproved building, and a few workers sustained injuries and were being treated. However, no fatalities have been reported. The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) noted ongoing mobilization efforts to rescue those trapped in the building. The incident has caused concern among residents, who are calling on the government to take action against the frequent occurrence of building collapses in the state.
Building collapses are not uncommon in Lagos, with many attributed to poor construction practices, lack of regulatory oversight, and corruption. The city's rapid population growth has also contributed to a proliferation of unapproved buildings, as many residents struggle to find affordable housing. The government has taken steps to address the issue, including increasing penalties for building code violations, demolishing unsafe structures, and creating a task force to monitor building construction.
However, more needs to be done to ensure the safety of residents and workers, particularly in the construction industry. This includes stronger enforcement of building regulations, improved oversight of construction sites, and greater public awareness of the risks associated with unapproved building practices. The incident serves as a reminder of the urgent need for action to prevent future building collapses and protect the lives of those living and working in the state.
As investigations continue into the cause of the collapse and efforts to rescue those trapped in the building, members of the public have been urged to remain calm and await further information from the government. The incident highlights the importance of maintaining high standards of construction and regulatory oversight to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
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