Ajuwon building collapse: Ogun govt appreciates all responders

The Ogun State Government acknowledges and appreciates the support extended by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) in the successful completion of the search and recovery operation following the unfortunate building collapse at Baale Road, OGS Bus Stop, Ajuwon.

While commending the spirit of inter-state collaboration demonstrated by LASEMA, it is important to clarify the sequence of events to ensure that the public is accurately informed.

Immediately the incident occurred on Monday, the Ogun State Government activated its emergency response under the directive of Governor Dapo Abiodun. Officials of the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, the Ogun State Emergency Management Agency, security agencies and other relevant stakeholders were deployed to the scene without delay to coordinate search and recovery efforts, secure the area and protect adjoining properties.

The Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, with the support of Craneburg, its contractor working within the corridor, immediately deployed two payloaders, one heavy-duty excavator and ten dumper trucks, enabling search and recovery operations to commence within minutes of the collapse. The prompt deployment of heavy equipment significantly enhanced access to the site and accelerated the operation.

Recognising the strategic importance of the incident and its proximity to the Lagos State border, the Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development promptly reached out on Monday to the Lagos State Honourable Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development and the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA to request additional support. The Lagos emergency team subsequently arrived on Tuesday, 28 July.

By the time the Lagos emergency team arrived, officials of the Ogun State Government, supported by NEMA, security agencies, emergency responders and Craneburg, had been engaged in continuous search and recovery operations for more than 18 hours. The operation had advanced significantly, with substantial excavation and recovery already completed before the arrival of the Lagos team.

The Ogun State Government also acknowledges the invaluable contribution of the Executive Chairman of Ifo Local Government, Hon. Kusimo Idris Olalekan, and his team, who worked throughout the night alongside state officials to maintain order, support emergency responders and ensure the safety of residents within the affected neighbourhood.

The Ogun State Government sincerely appreciates Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the management of LASEMA for responding to its request and demonstrating the spirit of cooperation that should always characterise relations between neighbouring states in times of emergency. The collaboration between both states reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding lives and property regardless of administrative boundaries.

The successful search and recovery operation was made possible through the collective efforts of the Ogun State Government, Ifo Local Government, NEMA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps, the Ogun State Emergency Management Agency, the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, the Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, Craneburg, community volunteers and the support subsequently provided by LASEMA. The Government expresses its profound appreciation to every individual and organisation that contributed to the successful conclusion of the operation.

With the search and recovery operation now concluded, the Ogun State Government has commenced a comprehensive technical investigation to determine the immediate and remote causes of the collapse. Appropriate regulatory and legal actions will be taken where any violation of approved building standards, physical planning laws or development regulations is established.

The Government reiterates its commitment to strengthening compliance with physical planning laws and building regulations across the state. Developers, property owners and residents are advised to obtain all necessary planning approvals, engage qualified professionals and subject buildings to periodic structural integrity assessments to prevent similar tragedies.

The Ogun State Government extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and wishes those who sustained injuries a speedy and full recovery. The Government also expresses its appreciation to residents of the community for their patience, cooperation and support throughout the operation, which contributed significantly to the orderly conclusion of the emergency response.