One Dead, Two Survivors Rescued After Shopping Complex Collapse in Lagos

A three-storey shopping complex in the Alakija area of Ori-Ade Local Council Development Area, Lagos State, has collapsed, leaving one person dead and two others pulled out alive from the rubble.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) said search-and-rescue operations were still ongoing as emergency responders continued efforts to locate other victims trapped beneath the rubble.

In an incident update issued on Thursday, the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, said a coordinated multi-agency rescue operation had been activated following the collapse.

According to him, the rescue operation involves LASEMA, the Lagos State Building Control Agency, and the CRCC Construction Company.

“Two victims have been rescued alive through the joint efforts of LASEMA, LASBCA, and CRCC Construction Company,” the statement read.

The agency added that the body of an adult male had also been recovered from the debris.

“One deceased adult male has been located. Recovery efforts are ongoing,” it stated.

LASEMA said there were indications that additional persons, including shop owners who had resumed business activities in the building, could still be trapped beneath the collapsed structure.

“There are reports that additional persons, including shop owners who had resumed business, may still be trapped. Search and rescue operations remain active,” the agency said.

It added that heavy-duty equipment, including an excavator, had been deployed to support ongoing search and recovery efforts.

The agency urged residents to stay away from the scene to enable emergency responders to carry out rescue operations without obstruction.

“Members of the public are advised to remain calm, avoid the incident scene, and allow emergency responders unrestricted access to carry out life-saving operations,” the statement added.

LASEMA assured residents that it would continue to provide verified updates as the rescue operation progresses.