The Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) expresses grave concern over the recurring incidents of building collapses in Lekki, Lagos, and the apparent lack of official investigations into their causes. This inaction, they argue, not only perpetuates a cycle of preventable tragedies but also raises suspicions of deliberate cover-ups to protect influential individuals involved in these construction projects. The guild highlights several instances of collapsed buildings in the Lekki area, where despite loss of life and potential evidence buried under rubble during rescue operations, investigations have been conspicuously absent. This lack of accountability fosters an environment where negligent practices continue unchecked, increasing the risk of future collapses.
The BCPG recounts a series of building collapses in Lekki, starting with two incidents on January 28, 2025 – a two-story building collapse at Northern Foreshore Estate and a three-story building collapse at Mega Mall Estate – both resulting in fatalities. They further cite the collapse of a four-story building on Oriwu Street in March 2025, where the BCPG Lekki Cell conducted a technical visit, highlighting the urgent need for an official investigation. The guild expresses skepticism about the likelihood of such an investigation, based on past experiences with similar incidents in neighboring areas. This pattern of inaction raises concerns that influential figures may be shielded from scrutiny, hindering efforts to improve building safety standards and prevent future disasters.
The guild draws parallels with a 2022 incident where a nine-story building collapsed in Oniru, Victoria Island, claiming four lives. Despite documented efforts by the BCPG, no official investigation was conducted. Similarly, a 2013 building collapse within the premises of the Iru-Victoria Island Eti Osa Local Council Development Area prompted a meeting between the BCPG and the then-chairman, Abayomi Daramola. The guild advised a post-mortem analysis to determine the cause of the collapse and discussed potential penalties, including land forfeiture as stipulated by the Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law of 2010. However, neither an investigation nor land forfeiture transpired, reinforcing the pattern of inaction and raising questions about potential conflicts of interest.
The BCPG emphasizes that identifying the root causes of building collapses and implementing corrective measures are crucial to preventing future tragedies. They point to the legal requirement for investigations before land can be confiscated, as stipulated in the Lagos State Urban and Regional Planning and Development Law. The guild cites the July 2024 collapse of a three-story building in Maryland, Lagos, which resulted in multiple deaths. Despite the BCPG Kosofe Cell’s open letter to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu demanding an official investigation, no action has been taken. This inaction fuels speculation about the influence of the developer and underscores the need for transparency and accountability in addressing building collapses.
Furthermore, the BCPG highlights a 2015 collapse of a three-story building in Agungi, Lekki, which prompted them to raise concerns about the prevalence of unqualified individuals in construction roles within certain Lekki estates. They stress the importance of developers verifying the qualifications of personnel entrusted with critical responsibilities. The guild also recounts the devastating 2016 collapse of a six-story building in Ikate-Elegushi, Lekki, which resulted in 34 deaths and numerous injuries. In this instance, the BCPG Lekki Cell collaborated with the Nigeria Police to secure the site and ensure the preservation of evidence, highlighting their commitment to uncovering the truth behind these tragedies.
The BCPG’s repeated calls for official investigations into building collapses in Lekki underscore the urgent need for transparency and accountability in the construction industry. The lack of investigations, coupled with the absence of consequences for those responsible, not only perpetuates a culture of negligence but also undermines public trust. By highlighting these incidents and demanding action, the BCPG aims to prevent future tragedies and ensure that those responsible for jeopardizing public safety are held accountable. Their efforts represent a crucial step towards creating a safer built environment in Lagos and preventing further loss of life.
