NANS demands probe of Lagos building collapse, seeks accountability

The South-West Zone D chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, has expressed sympathy to victims of the recent building collapse in the Lekki area of Lagos State, while calling for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

The student body also urged authorities to ensure that anyone found responsible for the incident is held accountable.

In a statement issued on Saturday by its Public Relations Officer, Tope Olugbemi, NANS extended its condolences to the family of Mr John Asabere, who was reportedly among those who lost their lives in the collapse.

The association described him as a dedicated family man and breadwinner whose death has left his loved ones in grief.

The organisation decried the recurring cases of building collapses across the country, particularly in Lagos State, stressing that many of the incidents could be prevented through strict adherence to approved construction standards and effective oversight by relevant regulatory agencies.

“It is disheartening that despite advancements in construction technology and regulatory frameworks, avoidable structural failures continue to claim lives that could have been saved through strict compliance with building standards and effective monitoring.

“We are compelled to question the role of relevant regulatory authorities, particularly the Lagos State Building Control Agency, whose responsibility includes ensuring that construction projects adhere strictly to approved specifications and safety regulations. Incidents of this nature should have become a thing of the past if all necessary preventive measures and oversight responsibilities had been diligently carried out,” the statement said.

The association further expressed concern over allegations that efforts were being made to minimise the scale of the disaster and conceal information relating to casualties recorded at the site.

“Even more disturbing are allegations that attempts have been made to downplay the severity of the incident and suppress information relating to the fatalities recorded at the site. If proven true, such actions represent a gross disregard for human life, an abuse of influence, and a deliberate attempt to deny grieving families the justice and closure they deserve.

“NANS Southwest therefore calls on all relevant security and investigative agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse. We urge authorities to resist any form of interference, intimidation, or cover-up that may compromise the integrity of the investigation,” the statement added.

The association maintained that a transparent probe and strict enforcement of building regulations are necessary to prevent future occurrences and restore public confidence in the country’s construction oversight system.