Environment
THREE persons have been confirmed dead, while 12 others were rescued alive following the collapse of a mixed-use building at Ajuwon, Ogun State, with the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) joining ongoing search and rescue operations.
This is contained in a statement signed by Dr Olufemi Oke- Osanyitolu, Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, on Tuesday in Lagos.
He said the victims comprised an adult woman, a baby girl and a 75-year-old man.
He added that rescue operations were continuing as emergency responders searched for other possible survivors trapped beneath the rubble.
LASEMA said it deployed its elite response team and heavy rescue equipment on Tuesday following a directive by Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu to support the Ogun State Government’s emergency response.
He said the collapsed structure, located at OGS Bus Stop, Baale Road, Ajuwon, a border community between Lagos and Ogun states, housed two shops on the ground floor and residential apartments above.
The agency said it was working with the Ogun State Government, the Ogun State Fire Service, Amotekun Corps and other responders.
LASEMA said a preliminary structural assessment showed that an adjoining bungalow had been severely compromised and would undergo controlled demolition to prevent a secondary collapse and ensure the safety of emergency workers and residents.
The permanent secretary said the deployment reflected Lagos State’s commitment to regional cooperation, stressing that disasters transcend state boundaries.
He urged residents to stay away from the incident scene to allow rescue teams unhindered access and advised property owners and developers to comply with building regulations and carry out regular structural integrity tests.
The Lagos State Government extended condolences to the families of the deceased and wished those rescued a speedy recovery.
The LASG reaffirmed its commitment to regional emergency preparedness and disaster response.
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Tags: Ajowon building collapse LASEMA