Many trapped as seven-storey building collapses in Banana Island, Lagos

On Banana Island's Ikoyi neighbourhood of Lagos State, a seven-story building collapsed yesterday, trapping an undetermined number of people within. The structure, which was still under construction, collapsed at around 5:00 p.m., but the reason for it was unknown at the time of publication.

Despite the fact that the cause of the collapse is yet unknown, a source claimed that before the collapse, concreting was taking place on the sixth floor. Workers were stuck in the building, according to a statement from the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), whose authorities are mobilizing the response team to rescue victims who are trapped.

Also, a rescue mission has begun, according to a LASBCA officer who confirmed the event to The Guardian but was unable to provide any information.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA) has dispatched personnel to the collapse site to assist with rescue efforts. Dr. Oluwafemi Oke-Osanyintolu, the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, confirmed the occurrence when he 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, the illegal collapsed building is being investigated, according to the Lagos State administration. 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 an unfortunate incident that happened while casting was being done.”

Tayo Bamgbose-Martins, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, went to the location to inspect the situation and launch an investigation.

Source