A three-storey building under construction collapsed on Sunday afternoon at 4 Agarawu Street, Lagos Island, leaving two individuals trapped. Emergency responders swiftly arrived at the scene and successfully rescued both victims, who were subsequently taken to the hospital for treatment.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the incident and reported that no fatalities occurred. The cause of the collapse is yet to be determined, and investigations are ongoing.
A Recurring Issue in Lagos
Building collapses have become a frequent occurrence in Lagos State. In January 2025, a two-storey building under construction in the Ikota area of Ajah collapsed, resulting in two deaths and five injuries.
In May 2022, a three-storey building under construction at 4 Alayaki Lane, Freeman Road, Lagos Island, collapsed during heavy rainfall. Two people were rescued alive, while two others were confirmed dead. Investigations revealed that the building had been sealed by the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) for violating safety protocols, but construction continued secretly at night and on weekends.
Government’s Response
In response to the increasing incidents of building collapses, the Lagos State government has proposed new laws aimed at enforcing stricter compliance with construction standards. The Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory (LSMTL) announced plans to make it mandatory for developers to obtain a Non-Destructive Test Report (NDTR) before selling or renting out properties. This measure aims to ensure that buildings meet safety standards before occupancy. citeturn0search1
Public Safety Measures
Authorities urge residents to report any signs of structural weaknesses or unauthorized construction activities in their neighborhoods. The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) continues to monitor buildings across the state to prevent future incidents.
Residents are reminded to stay vigilant and cooperate with government agencies to ensure the safety of all structures within the state.
