Panic and confusion gripped residents of the Alakija area of Lagos State on Thursday after a three-storey building suddenly collapsed, leaving an unknown number of people feared trapped beneath the rubble.
The incident, which occurred during the day, attracted a large crowd of residents, passersby, and sympathizers who gathered at the scene as emergency responders were mobilized to begin rescue operations.
Witnesses said a loud sound was heard moments before the structure came crashing down, sending dust and debris into the surrounding area.
The collapse caused widespread panic among residents and business owners in the vicinity, many of whom rushed to the scene in an attempt to assist before the arrival of emergency personnel.
As of the time of filing this report, authorities had yet to confirm the number of occupants in the building when it collapsed, making it difficult to determine the exact number of casualties or those trapped beneath the debris.
Emergency response agencies, including rescue teams and other relevant authorities, were expected to commence search-and-rescue operations to locate and evacuate anyone trapped under the wreckage.
Efforts were also underway to cordon off the area to prevent further casualties and ensure the safety of rescue workers and residents.
The cause of the building collapse has not been officially established.
However, investigators are expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the structural integrity of the building and compliance with construction regulations.
Building collapses remain a recurring challenge in Lagos and other parts of Nigeria, often raising concerns about adherence to building standards, the use of substandard materials, and inadequate regulatory oversight within the construction sector.
Residents have appealed to emergency agencies to expedite rescue efforts amid fears that survivors may still be trapped beneath the debris.
Authorities are expected to provide further updates as rescue operations continue and investigations into the cause of the collapse progress.
