Ogun community building collapse: 12 rescued, three dead

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) said 12 adult males have been rescued alive from the building collapse in Ajuwon, Ogun State.

However, one adult female, a 75-year-old man, and a baby were confirmed dead, following the vertical collapse of the 3-storey building.

Ajuwon is a border town between Lagos and Ogun states.

According to a statement by the Head, Public Affairs, LASEMA, Afolabi Olawale, on behalf of the Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, following the incident, the Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, directed LASEMA to assist the efforts of the Ogun State government.

According to Oke-Osanyintolu, LASEMA, in collaboration with the Ogun State Government officials, led by the Hon. Commissioner for Works, Eng Ade Olayinka Akinsanya, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Nigeria Police Force, the Amotekun Corps, and other relevant stakeholders, are currently at the scene of the incident for the rescue and recovery operations.

“Our joint rescue teams have successfully rescued 12 persons alive from the rubble, while the bodies of three victims have been recovered. Search and rescue operations are still ongoing, as we remain committed to ensuring that every trapped victim is accounted for.”

The agency further disclosed that preliminary structural assessment also revealed that the adjoining bungalow was severely compromised by the impact of the collapse, “and now poses a significant safety risk.

“Consequently, the building will be carefully demolished to prevent a secondary collapse and safeguard emergency responders as well as residents within the area.”

When our reporter visited the scene Tuesday afternoon, LASEMA officials were present with their heavy rescue equipment to support ongoing rescue and recovery operations.

Speaking on the intervention, Oke-Osanyintolu noted that the action of the Lagos State Government reflects its commitment to the principle that disaster knows no boundaries.

“By extending operational support beyond state lines, Lagos is setting a benchmark for regional solidarity and integrated emergency management across Western Nigeria*and the nation at large.

“This magnanimous gesture underscores the Governor’s vision of Lagos not just as a Centre of Excellence, but as a First Responder State with the capacity, compassion, and political will to support sister states in times of distress. It aligns with international standards on mutual aid and cooperative disaster governance.”

The Permanent Secretary, LASEMA, extended the agency’s deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and wishes a speedy recovery to all affected.

“We also commend the bravery of all first responders working tirelessly on the ground.”

He stated further that Lagos remains committed to partnering with the Federal Government, NEMA, and all South-Western States to build a safer, more resilient region for all citizens.

The operation is now at ground zero, with responders excavating below the foundation level to ensure no victim remained trapped before the operation is concluded.

As at Tuesday afternoon, search and rescue operations were still ongoing.