The government of Lagos State has issued a warning to the people of the state, urging them to be on the lookout for any insecure buildings in their neighborhoods and to report them immediately in the event that they collapse.
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In a statement released on Tuesday, Mrs. Olayinka Abdul, the General Manager of the Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory (LSMTL), made the request.
She warned that preventable disasters could occur if people did not act on warning indicators of structural flaws, stressing the significance of early detection and public collaboration in this regard.
The lack of adherence to correct materials testing standards and developers’ flagrant disrespect for safety laws have been identified as contributing factors to numerous building disasters in the state, she said.
Using the example of a three-story building that recently fell on Oremeta Street in the Ojodu-Berger neighborhood, Abdul detailed how the building’s failure was due to the disregard of its Non-Destructive Test results, which led to its unfinished state for more than ten years.
There was an immediate and obvious need for additional expert advice from structural engineers based on the findings. “Unfortunately, this recommendation was ignored,” Abdul remarked.
She went on to say that the building’s back was allegedly used for more illicit construction during the night, likely to avoid regulatory authorities’ eyes, especially over the Easter break. As the building fell, this illegal scheme was being carried out,” she continued.
Abdul reminded the people to remain vigilant and watch out for any construction activity in their neighborhoods that doesn’t seem right. He stressed that reporting such activity quickly could help prevent potentially fatal accidents. The work was done at night, and the residents should have rung the alarm, she added.
Advocating for the ‘See Something, Say Something’ safety program, she reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting lives and property in Lagos.
Abdul said, “Residents can reach us via WhatsApp on 07058890232” in the event that they noticed any questionable construction work or buildings.