By Business A.M.
The Lagos State government said that its officials have commenced investigations of an unapproved seven-storey building which collapsed on Wednesday at First Avenue, Banana Island, Ikoyi, Lagos.
Mukaila Sanusi, deputy director, public affairs, Lagos State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development,in a statement, noted that no approval was given for the construction of the collapsed structure.
“Few who sustained injuries are being treated. There is no fatality. This unfortunate incident happened while casting was being done,” Sanusi stated.
The statement also noted that Tayo Bamgbose-Martins,the commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, visited the site to assess the situation and launch an investigation.
“We ask members of the public to remain calm and expect further information from the ministry as we know more,” the statement added.
Business A.M gathered that the incident occurred on Wednesday between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Interestingly,Banana Island, the neighbourhood where the building collapsed, hosts several high end residential developments owned by some of the wealthiest Nigerians, making it the most expensive neighbourhood in the country.
Meanwhile, Margaret Adeseye, the general manager, Lagos State Fire Service,stated that no fewer than seven persons were rescued at the site with varying degrees of injury.
Adeseye said seven persons were rescued alive with varying degrees of injury. She also confirmed that an investigation has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the collapse.
