A two-storey residential building collapsed in the densely populated Ebute Metta area of Lagos on Tuesday, leaving many feared dead and several others trapped under the rubble. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, has sent shockwaves through the community, with emergency responders racing against time to rescue survivors.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Naija247news gathered that the building, located on Freeman Street, was reportedly in a state of disrepair for several years, with residents raising concerns about its structural integrity. Eyewitnesses claimed that the collapse happened suddenly, with a loud crash that alerted neighbors and passersby. According to Naija247news, at least 20 people were inside the building when it caved in, and rescue operations are ongoing to retrieve those trapped.
Emergency services, including the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), swiftly arrived at the scene. Naija247news understands that heavy machinery and sniffer dogs are being used to locate survivors under the debris. However, the operation has been hampered by the narrow streets and chaotic crowd of onlookers, making it difficult for rescue teams to access the site.
A survivor, identified as Mrs. Adeola Oke, recounted her harrowing escape to Naija247news. “I was in my room when I heard a loud cracking sound. Before I could react, the ceiling came down. I managed to crawl out through a small opening, but many of my neighbors were not so lucky,” she said, visibly shaken.
According to Naija247news, this incident is the latest in a series of building collapses in Lagos, raising questions about the enforcement of building codes and regulations in the state. Experts have repeatedly warned about the dangers of substandard construction materials and poor maintenance, particularly in older buildings.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and promised a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. Naija247news reports that the governor has also ordered an immediate audit of all buildings in the area to prevent future tragedies.
As the rescue operation continues, the community remains in mourning, with many praying for miracles amid the devastation. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for stricter building regulations and better urban planning in Nigeria’s bustling commercial capital.
