The Lagos State Government has sympathised with families affected by the building collapse in the Alakija area of Oriade Local Council Development Area, while warning residents against ignoring evacuation notices issued on distressed buildings.
Eko Hot News reports that the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, delivered the government’s message on Friday during a media briefing at the scene of the incident on behalf of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
Omotoso conveyed Governor Sanwo-Olu’s condolences to the affected families, describing the incident as deeply unfortunate. He prayed for comfort for those who lost loved ones and expressed hope that similar occurrences would be prevented through stricter compliance with safety regulations.
The commissioner disclosed that emergency responders arrived at the scene immediately after the incident and worked throughout the night to carry out search and rescue operations.
According to him, 27 people were rescued alive, while nine people lost their lives despite the sustained rescue efforts. He described the outcome as heartbreaking and extended the government’s sympathy to the bereaved families.
Omotoso revealed that the collapsed building had previously been identified as structurally distressed and occupants were instructed to vacate the premises for their safety.
He explained that despite the evacuation notice, some occupants reportedly returned to the building after initially leaving, a development he said contributed to the unfortunate incident.
The commissioner announced that all other buildings already marked as structurally defective within the surrounding area would be demolished to prevent future incidents and safeguard residents.
He stressed that protecting lives remains the Lagos State Government’s highest priority and urged residents to cooperate fully with officials whenever evacuation directives are issued.
Omotoso also commended the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Nigeria Police Force, the military, the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps, and other emergency responders for their prompt and coordinated response.
He praised the dedication of the rescue teams, noting that their swift intervention helped save many lives and ensured effective management of the emergency situation.
The commissioner urged residents to place greater importance on personal safety than economic activities, reminding the public that no business or commercial activity should take precedence over the protection of human life.
He also condemned the construction and occupation of buildings beneath high-tension electricity lines, describing the practice as unsafe and contrary to established planning regulations.
According to Omotoso, the Lagos State Government will continue enforcing building safety laws and planning regulations to reduce structural risks and promote safer communities across the state.
He disclosed that a comprehensive investigation into the cause of the building collapse is already underway and assured residents that anyone found responsible for violating building regulations would face legal consequences.
The commissioner added that most of the rescued victims sustained minor injuries, while those requiring additional medical attention have been admitted to hospitals for treatment.
Other government officials present at the briefing included the Commissioner for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Relations, Mr. Gbenga Oyerinde, and the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu.
The Lagos State Government reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening building safety enforcement, encouraging residents to comply with official directives, and ensuring that similar incidents are prevented through proactive monitoring and strict adherence to approved regulations.
