The Lagos State Government has issued an urgent warning regarding the potential collapse of a building at the Mopol 20 Barracks in Onigbongbo, Ikeja.
In response, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency is set to begin emergency evacuation and demolition of the deteriorating Block 3 section of the barracks.
According to a statement released on Wednesday by the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, the agency’s response team conducted an assessment of the structure and found it to be in a highly dangerous state.
Immediate evacuation and demolition of the building, as well as adjacent structures, have been deemed necessary to prevent any potential loss of life or property.
“The agency dispatched a response team to the location, and the findings indicate that the building and those adjacent must be evacuated with immediate effect. We are conducting a response plan which comprises an assessment, safe and orderly evacuation, and controlled demolition,” Oke-Osanyintolu said.
He further noted that the preemptive demolition is part of the Lagos State Government’s efforts to avert any potential disaster under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu.
The permanent secretary highlighted that the decision was made to prevent secondary incidents that could arise if the structural weaknesses were left unaddressed.
Oke-Osanyintolu also urged residents and people living around the barracks to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation about the situation on social media.
He assured the public that the matter is under control and being carefully managed to ensure the safety of all concerned.
This move follows a series of proactive measures by the Lagos State Government aimed at addressing the increasing risk of building collapses in the state, particularly in densely populated areas.
