Panic erupted in the Alakija area of Lagos on Thursday after a storey building collapsed along Old Ojo Road, near Alakija Bus Stop, leaving several occupants feared trapped beneath the rubble.
Emergency responders and residents immediately mobilised to the scene of the incident as rescue efforts commenced to save those trapped in the wreckage.
As of the time of filing this report, no fewer than 10 persons had been rescued from the debris, with many of them reportedly sustaining varying degrees of injuries.
Witnesses said the building, which served as a residential apartment, suddenly gave way, sending occupants and neighbours into panic.
Rescue officials were still combing through the rubble amid fears that additional victims could be trapped beneath the collapsed structure.
The exact cause of the collapse had yet to be determined as emergency agencies continued search and rescue operations at the site.
A resident of the area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, described the incident as devastating, noting that the building was occupied at the time it collapsed. “This is not an abandoned building. People live here. We are still hoping that everyone trapped inside will be rescued alive,” the resident said.
Officials of relevant emergency management agencies were seen at the scene coordinating rescue efforts, while a crowd of anxious residents gathered to monitor developments.
Further details on casualties and the possible cause of the collapse are expected as rescue operations continue.
