The Lagos State Government has urged residents to report any buildings that appear unsafe and could potentially collapse across the state.
This advice was given by the General Manager of the Lagos State Materials Testing Agency, Mrs Olayinka Abdul, in a statement on Tuesday.
Abdul emphasized the need for residents to remain vigilant and report any signs of structural issues they notice in their surroundings. She noted that proactive reporting could help prevent building disasters, particularly those caused by builders neglecting proper materials testing.
She warned that building collapses would continue to occur if the public failed to take materials testing seriously, referencing the recent collapse of a building on Oremeta Street in Ojodu-Berger.
Abdul explained that the collapse happened because the results of a non-destructive test were not adhered to.
“This is exactly what happens when safety regulations are overlooked,” she stated.
According to Abdul, the test results had indicated the need for further professional input from structural engineers, as the building had remained in an incomplete carcass form for 10 years.
She further explained that the collapse of the three-storey building was made worse by non-compliance with Lagos State building codes and actions that violated established professional standards.
Abdul revealed that additional construction at the rear of the building had been allegedly carried out at night, likely to avoid detection by relevant authorities, particularly during the Easter public holiday.
“Whilst implementing this evil scheme, the building came down,” she said.
The general manager urged residents to stay alert and immediately report any suspicious or unapproved construction activities in their area. She stressed that quick reporting could prevent more serious problems later.
“Residents should note that these constructions were done at night, and they should have raised an alarm about it. See something, say something in order to help keep everyone safe. We need to be deliberate in informing authorities of some happenings around us.”
Abdul encouraged residents to report faulty buildings via WhatsApp at 07058890232.
In her announcement, Abdul disclosed that all surrounding structures near the Oremeta collapse site would undergo non-destructive testing starting Tuesday, April 22. This testing is part of a mandatory five-year structural integrity assessment for all long-standing buildings.
She warned that anyone found guilty of ignoring the building codes established by the Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory would face serious sanctions. Abdul stressed the importance of proper testing to ensure that buildings and infrastructure are safe, durable, and constructed to last.
“Without rigorous testing, we risk constructing buildings and infrastructure that are prone to failure, collapse, and ultimately, loss of lives and property. For Lagos State as a megacity with a rapidly growing population and urbanisation, the demand for quality infrastructure is higher than ever,” she said.
Abdul reiterated that the agency is committed to ensuring all construction materials used in the state meet the highest standards for quality and safety. She emphasized that the agency’s primary goal is to protect the lives of Lagos residents while supporting long-term, sustainable development.
She also pointed out that materials testing is not only about safety but also about sustainability.
“By using high-quality materials, we can cut down on the need for constant repairs and replacements, which helps save resources and reduces construction waste in the long run,” she explained.
“All they need to do is to see something, say something, as it places emphasis on the importance of citizens’ vigilance in preventing disasters,” Abdul added.
