Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
LAGOS, Nigeria – The Lagos State Government says it will demolish structurally defective buildings across the state following the collapse of a three-storey building in Alakija that killed nine people and injured several others.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy Gbenga Omotoso announced the decision Friday while inspecting the scene of the disaster.
The government also launched an investigation into the collapse and warned that anyone found responsible would face prosecution.
Omotoso said 27 people were rescued alive during extensive overnight rescue operations coordinated by emergency agencies.
“We do not want this kind of incident to happen again,” he said.
According to the commissioner, the collapsed structure had previously been identified as distressed and occupants were advised to vacate the premises.
However, some residents reportedly returned to the building despite the warning.
He said all defective structures in the area would now be removed to prevent similar incidents.
“The government will not hesitate to act where public safety is threatened,” he said.
Omotoso also criticised the construction of buildings beneath high-voltage power lines, describing the practice as dangerous and contrary to safety regulations.
Property owners linked to the collapsed building are currently under investigation.
The commissioner said most survivors sustained minor injuries, while those requiring further treatment were transferred to nearby hospitals.
He commended emergency responders, including LASEMA, the fire service, security agencies and volunteer rescue teams, for their swift intervention.
Omotoso urged residents to obey evacuation notices and report distressed buildings before they become dangerous.
“No business or economic activity is worth risking human life,” he said.
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Hussaini Ibrahim 
Mirian Gom 