A narrow escape turned into relief for pupils, staff and residents when a four‑storey building housing Yemco Nursery, Primary and Comprehensive College suddenly gave way at 11, Adudatu Street, behind County Hospital in the Aguda axis of Ogba, Lagos State on Monday around midday.
The collapse occurred just minutes after students, teachers and other occupants were hurriedly evacuated following warnings that the structure was unstable.
The quick action came after a man in the neighbourhood raised the alarm about visible signs of distress in the building, prompting school authorities to immediately clear the premises, a decision that averted what could have been a major tragedy.
Eyewitnesses described how wooden planks reportedly fell from the roof and cracks began to appear on the walls shortly before the evacuation, sparking alarm among onlookers.
Residents said that within about three minutes of the occupants leaving the building, the structure collapsed completely.
Officials from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Lagos State Building Control Agency quickly secured the scene and restricted access to prevent bystanders from entering the dangerous area.
Part of the property that was used for residential purposes remained standing next to the collapsed section, and emergency responders advised that nearby buildings be assessed for safety.
Thankfully, no deaths have been reported, and authorities say many lives were saved thanks to the timely evacuation.
The Lagos State government has since launched an official investigation to determine the cause of the collapse and to ensure compliance with building safety standards, urging property owners and developers to strictly follow regulatory procedures in construction and renovation works.
