…27 rescued alive, 9 dead as owners face prosecution
The Lagos State Government has ordered the demolition of all structurally distressed buildings surrounding the site of the collapsed three-storey structure in Alakija, Satellite Town, to prevent similar incidents.
The state also announced that the owners of the collapsed building, along with anyone found to have breached building regulations or hindered enforcement actions, will be prosecuted.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, disclosed this on Friday while inspecting the collapse site on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Omotoso said the governor expressed deep sadness over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones.
He revealed that emergency responders rescued 27 people alive from the debris, while nine others died during the overnight rescue operation.
Personnel from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), the Police, the Command and Control Centre, and the Neighbourhood Safety Corps remained at the scene to conclude rescue and recovery efforts.
According to Omotoso, the collapsed building had earlier been declared structurally unsafe and marked for demolition, with occupants instructed to vacate the premises.
He lamented that the directive was ignored, stating that commercial interests were placed above human lives.
The commissioner announced that every other building previously identified as unsafe within the area would be demolished immediately to protect residents and property.
He stressed that building owners found responsible for violating safety regulations or obstructing enforcement measures would be held accountable under Lagos State laws.
Omotoso also criticised the construction of buildings beneath high-tension electricity lines, describing the practice as hazardous and unacceptable.
He said investigations into the cause of the collapse were ongoing, while survivors continued to receive medical care in various hospitals.
Residents living in buildings around the affected area were advised to relocate immediately and comply with government safety directives.
The commissioner praised emergency responders for their commitment and professionalism throughout the rescue mission.
LASEMA Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, also commended first responders and security agencies for their relentless efforts, noting that operations continued until the collapsed structure was completely brought down.
Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Gbenga Oyerinde, who joined the inspection, likewise applauded the rescue teams for their swift and coordinated response.
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