The Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) has expressed grave concern over the escalating trend of reckless property sales in Yaba, Lagos State, particularly the disposal of heritage buildings to developers. This concern stems from the potential for these historically significant structures to be demolished and replaced with modern constructions that may not adhere to the same stringent building standards, increasing the risk of future collapses. The BCPG argues that these heritage buildings represent not only architectural and historical value but also embody the robust construction practices of the past, serving as tangible examples of durable and safe building techniques. The organization emphasizes the critical need to preserve these structures both for their inherent value and as a testament to sound building practices that should be emulated in modern construction.
The BCPG’s apprehension is further fueled by the observation that some developers acquiring these properties may prioritize profit maximization over adherence to building codes and regulations. This pursuit of economic gain could lead to compromises in construction quality, including the use of substandard materials, inadequate structural design, and the disregard for proper construction methodologies. Consequently, the BCPG stresses the importance of responsible development that prioritizes structural integrity and public safety alongside economic considerations. The organization advocates for stricter enforcement of building codes and regulations, coupled with enhanced oversight of development projects to ensure that new constructions meet the highest standards of safety and durability.
The BCPG’s focus on Yaba is particularly poignant given the area’s historical significance as a hub of educational and training institutions specializing in building-related disciplines. Yaba is home to prominent institutions like the Federal Science and Technical College, Federal College of Education (Technical), Yaba College of Technology, and the University of Lagos, all renowned for producing skilled professionals in the building and construction sector. The occurrence of building collapses in this area, therefore, represents a stark contradiction of the very principles and practices taught within its institutions. The BCPG emphasizes the ironic nature of these incidents, underscoring the need for a renewed commitment to building safety standards within Yaba.
Despite the concentration of building expertise in Yaba, the area hasn’t been immune to building collapses. The BCPG cites specific instances, such as the collapse of a four-story hostel building under construction in 2022 and a five-story building collapse in 2015, both resulting in fatalities. These tragic events, according to the BCPG, underscore the need for proactive measures to prevent future collapses, emphasizing the importance of continuous vigilance and adherence to building standards. The organization underscores the need for ongoing education and awareness campaigns targeting developers, contractors, and property owners to reinforce the critical importance of building safety.
The BCPG advocates for a collective responsibility in ensuring building safety, calling upon all stakeholders, including developers, landlords, regulatory bodies, and community members, to play an active role in upholding building standards. The organization champions the adoption of best practices in construction, emphasizing the importance of thorough site investigations, rigorous structural design, the use of quality building materials, and adherence to approved construction methodologies. Furthermore, the BCPG stresses the significance of regular building inspections and maintenance to identify and address potential structural issues before they escalate into catastrophic failures.
The BCPG’s commitment to preventing building collapses in Yaba is evident in its engagement with local traditional leaders, including the paramount ruler of Igbobi Sabe, HRM Oba Owolabi Adeniyi. The organization presented the ruler with a portrait in recognition of his contributions to promoting standard building construction in his domain. This gesture symbolizes the BCPG’s belief in the importance of collaborative efforts involving community leaders, government agencies, and professional organizations to ensure building safety. The BCPG emphasizes the crucial role of community engagement and education in fostering a culture of safety within the construction industry.
