26 saved, eight killed in building collapse in Lagos

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) says 26 people have been rescued alive, while eight people, including a little girl, have died following the collapse of a three-storey shopping complex in the Alakija area of ​​Lagos.

LASEMA made this known in an update released Thursday, saying the data was confirmed at 4:20 p.m.

The agency added that search and rescue operations were still ongoing, with rescuers continuing efforts to locate and free any other victims trapped under the rubble.

The building collapsed in Alakija, Ori-Ade Local Council Development Area on Thursday, prompting the activation of a multi-agency emergency response.

In an earlier update, LASEMA Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said two victims were initially rescued alive through the joint efforts of LASEMA, the Lagos State Building Control Agency and the China Railway Construction Corporation.

Oke-Osanyintolu also confirmed the recovery of an adult male from the rubble and said other people, including shop owners who had resumed business in the complex, may still be trapped.

According to LASEMA, rescue teams continued systematic excavation of the debris, with the support of heavy equipment, including an excavator.

The agency urged residents and onlookers to stay away from the scene to allow emergency personnel to carry out rescue operations unhindered.

He assured the public that verified updates will continue to be released as the operation progresses.

The cause of the collapse has yet to be officially established.