In the early hours of today, a tragic incident occurred at number 13 Wilson Mba Street, Arowojobe Estate, Maryland, Lagos. A building collapse left at least five unidentified individuals dead and resulted in the hospitalization of five others. The incident unfolded around 3:58 a.m. when a set of three terrace buildings under construction suddenly gave way, leading to a dramatic and heartbreaking rescue operation.
The collapse of the building drew a swift response from the Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA), who arrived promptly at the scene to carry out rescue operations. Despite the early hour, the emergency teams worked diligently to navigate through the wreckage and save those trapped.
According to an eyewitness account, the devastation was immediate and severe. The three terrace buildings, which were still under construction, crumbled suddenly, burying workers beneath tons of debris. The sound of the collapse was reportedly deafening, and the ensuing chaos left many in the surrounding area in shock.
Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyitolu, the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, provided an update on the situation. He explained that the initial response involved recovering three dead adult males from the site. In addition to these fatalities, the LASEMA team, in collaboration with the Lagos State Fire Service, managed to rescue two male adults alive from the rubble. Another adult male, who was trapped under the debris, was also rescued.
“The swift and coordinated efforts of our teams were crucial in this operation. Initially, three adult males were recovered dead. However, two male adults were rescued alive, and another adult male trapped under the rubble was also rescued alive by the LASEMA and the Lagos State Fire Service,” Dr. Oke-Osanyitolu stated. He emphasized the professionalism and quick action of the emergency responders, which played a significant role in the successful rescue of some individuals.
The situation, however, took a more somber turn as the rescue operation continued. Dr. Oke-Osanyitolu later confirmed that the number of fatalities had increased to five, all adult males. “A total number of dead is now five, adult males, and a total number of five persons rescued and receiving medical treatment,” he said. This tragic update highlighted the severity of the collapse and the immense challenge faced by the rescue teams.
Emergency response teams on the scene included the Lagos State Rescue and Fire Service, Nigeria Police, and various other rescue organizations. The coordinated effort between these teams was essential in managing the crisis and ensuring that the injured received prompt medical attention.
In addition to the human resources, LASEMA deployed their excavator to assist in the search and rescue operations. The use of heavy machinery was crucial for clearing the debris and accessing the areas where victims might be trapped. The presence of the excavator allowed for a more efficient and thorough search, which was vital in preventing further loss of life and ensuring that all possible survivors were accounted for.
The scene of the collapse was chaotic and somber, with emergency personnel working tirelessly to manage the situation. The intense nature of the collapse and the subsequent rescue efforts drew significant attention from local media and the public. The outpouring of support and concern from the community reflected the widespread impact of the tragedy.
Authorities have called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the collapse. The fact that the buildings were still under construction raises questions about safety standards and construction practices. It is expected that a detailed examination will be conducted to determine any lapses in safety protocols or regulatory compliance that may have contributed to the incident.
In the meantime, the injured are receiving pre-hospital care on the site before being transferred to a nearby hospital for further treatment. The Lagos State Government has also promised to provide support to the families of the deceased and the injured, ensuring that they receive the necessary assistance during this difficult time.
The collapse of the building serves as a stark reminder of the importance of adhering to safety regulations in construction projects. It underscores the need for stringent oversight and adherence to safety standards to prevent such tragedies in the future. As investigations continue, there will be a focus on ensuring that accountability is upheld and that measures are put in place to safeguard against similar incidents.
The incident has left the community in mourning and has highlighted the need for improved safety measures and emergency response strategies. As the city grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, the resilience and dedication of the emergency teams offer a glimmer of hope and a testament to the spirit of collaboration in times of crisis.
