By Milcah Tanimu
A heartbreaking incident occurred on Thursday morning in the Oyingbo area of Lagos, where an unidentified 80-year-old woman lost her life as the staircase of a multi-story building collapsed.
Emergency responders swiftly arrived at the scene following the collapse, launching a rescue mission. Reports indicate that the Lagos State Building Control Agency attributed the tragedy to non-compliance with a vacation notice issued to the building’s occupants.
An eyewitness revealed that the building, already aged and in need of repairs, had not been vacated as recommended. The source stated, “It was really bound to happen. The building is old. The occupants needed to vacate the building to allow renovation. Maybe, this may not have happened.”
The Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Emergency Management Authority, Dr. Femi Oke-Osanyitolu, confirmed the unfortunate casualty. He stated that the agency received distress calls around 8:30 am, and the rescue team promptly arrived at 8:42 am.
Investigations revealed that an internal suspended beam in a room collapsed at approximately 7:45 am due to aging and lack of maintenance. Regrettably, the impact of the partial collapse resulted in the death of the elderly woman.
This incident adds to the series of building collapses in Lagos in recent times. The Lagos State Building Control Agency disclosed that its officials had inspected the building about four months ago, identifying signs of distress. The building was subsequently sealed, and occupants were instructed to vacate the premises.
LASBCA spokesperson, Olusegun Olaoye, expressed regret over the staircase collapse and affirmed that the agency had taken preventive measures four months ago. He stated, “It’s very unfortunate that the staircase caved in today.” The deceased woman’s age was confirmed as 80 years old.
