Naomi Gabriel —
Search for survivors in the wreckage of a 21-storey high-rise block that collapsed under construction yesterday, in Nigeria’s largest commercial hub Lagos, is still ongoing. At least fifteen persons are reported dead and dozens already missing.
The cause of the building collapse still remain unclear, as there are various speculations. Also, it is not yet known how many persons are still trapped under the wreckage.
However, investigations as to the cause of the collapse have been ordered by the authorities in the state, with a pledge of making a final report.
As rescuers work through the night, searchers with the help of some members of the community scoured through a mound of rubble and twisted metal. Four survivors were pulled from a part of the wreckage.
The building which collapsed at around 14:45 local time, in Ikoyi, was part of a complex named 360 Degrees Towers, and was meant to house luxury apartments, town houses and penthouses, according to the development’s website, which has since gone offline.
The building was being developed by Fourscore Homes Limited, which has a presence of projects in the UK, US, South Africa, and in some parts of Nigeria.
What they say.
Special Advisor to President Muhammadu Buhari, Femi Adesina:
“The president commiserates with families who have lost loved ones, The president has urged the authorities to step-up their rescue efforts”.
Eric Tetteh, 41, speaking to the Associated Press (AP):
“Our team has been waiting for an excavator to arrive at the site when the building suddenly fell. Me and my brother, we escaped, but more people are there – more than 100 people”.
Lagos’ deputy governor Femi Hamzat was met by crowds of angry people who accused authorities of not starting rescue efforts soon enough.
Some reports say the building, which had more than 20 storeys, was several floors higher than originally intended.
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