Worshippers at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Liberty Parish had a close call on Monday after concrete pillars from a nearby building under construction collapsed onto their church structure in Lagos.
The incident happened on Craig Street, off Apata Road, in the Shomolu area. The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) reported that a two-storey building, which was still under construction, gave way during the decking stage.
According to a statement released by LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, the partially completed building was one of two structures being developed at the same location. He noted that “upon arrival at the incident scene, it was discovered that the structure was one of two structures being erected at the site.”
Fortunately, there were no casualties, as the workers reportedly evacuated the premises before emergency responders arrived. The neighboring church, RCCG Liberty Parish, located at No. 5 Craig Street, was impacted when large concrete pillars from the collapsed structure fell onto the church building.
“Worshippers present in the church escaped unhurt, and no injuries were reported,” said Oke-Osanyintolu.
He added that a complete search of the area was done to make sure no one was trapped under the rubble. After confirming that everyone was safe, the site was sealed off to avoid any further danger.
“The affected site has since been cordoned off to prevent secondary incidents,” he noted.
Residents living nearby and people who had gathered around the scene were told to avoid the area for their own safety.
Authorities are still trying to determine the cause of the collapse. As of now, the exact reason the building gave way remains unknown. However, an investigation has been launched to find out what went wrong during the construction.
“Search and rescue operation has been concluded,” Oke-Osanyintolu added.
