A tragic incident occurred at Oriwu Estate, along the Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos State, as a two-story building collapsed, leading to multiple casualties. The National Emergency Management Authority (NEMA) confirmed that two additional bodies were recovered from the debris, bringing the total death toll to four. Meanwhile, an adult male was rescued alive, providing a glimmer of hope amid the devastation.
The building collapse happened on Wednesday at approximately 4:00 PM, prompting swift action from emergency response teams. Earlier reports indicated that 14 people had been rescued, but with the latest update, the number of survivors has increased to 15. Authorities also confirmed that six individuals sustained injuries of varying severity.
Dr. Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), stated that emergency teams were immediately deployed from the agency’s Lekki and Cappa bases following distress calls received at 2:25 PM. He emphasized that the exact cause of the collapse remains unknown, though investigations are underway to determine the factors leading to the disaster.
Rescue workers managed to extricate two adult males from the rubble, while six severely injured victims received on-the-spot medical care before being transferred to Marina General Hospital for further treatment.
The search and rescue operation continued at the site in Ikota, Ajah, as emergency responders from LASEMA remained committed to recovering any remaining trapped individuals. Authorities have assured the public that efforts will persist until all possible survivors are accounted for and the cause of the collapse is thoroughly investigated.