Three individuals were reportedly trapped beneath the debris of a partially constructed multistory building that collapsed in Ayetoro, Osogbo, the capital of Osun State. The incident occurred on Sunday evening, with Shehu Abubakar and Muktairu Mohammed being successfully rescued from the wreckage.
According to Kehinde Adeleke, spokesperson for the State Command of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), efforts to rescue the remaining three trapped individuals are underway. The operation requires the use of a crane to access the victims, while current efforts involve physical attempts to dismantle the decking and connected rods.
At the scene, personnel from NSCDC, the State Police Commissioner and team, and officials from the State Environmental Management Agency (OSEMA), alongside government officials, were present to coordinate the search and rescue operations.
Additionally, a delegation led by Hon. Mayowa Adejorin, the Commissioner for Environment, conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the collapse. They also identified another structurally compromised building nearby.
In response to the incident, Governor Ademola Adeleke expressed concern and issued a stern warning against unauthorized construction without approved building plans. He emphasized the necessity of adhering to building regulations to prevent such tragedies and instructed the Ministry of Lands to intensify enforcement efforts.
The Governor stressed that securing building approvals is mandatory to ensure construction standards and prevent the risk of collapse, which endangers lives and property. He directed relevant agencies to take proactive measures, including the demolition of substandard structures identified before they pose threats.
Meanwhile, the State Police Command, through its spokesperson Mrs. Yemisi Opalola, confirmed their swift response upon receiving the report, mobilizing a rescue team led by Commissioner of Police CP Mohammed Umar Abba. The operation was coordinated to ensure efficient management, involving various emergency responders to assist in the rescue efforts.
Opalola urged residents to promptly report any distressed or dilapidated buildings to prevent similar incidents, reaffirming the commitment of the Police Command to safeguarding lives and property in Osun State.
