The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has suggested that the Christ Embassy building on Billings Way, Oregun, Ikeja, might be demolished if it fails an integrity test following a fire that broke out early Sunday morning.
Reverend Chris Oyakhilome, President and founder of LoveWorld Incorporated (Christ Embassy), announced plans to rebuild a better and larger structure to replace the damaged building.
LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, mentioned this possibility while addressing journalists at the fire scene. According to Oke-Osanyintolu, the fire, which started around 7:30 am, caused significant structural damage, including cracks in the walls, necessitating an integrity test to determine the building's safety.
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“Our initial assessment shows many structural defects and cracks. We will conduct an integrity test to decide the next steps. Demolition will only be considered if the building is deemed unsafe,” Oke-Osanyintolu stated. He praised the church’s cooperation, which enabled the swift containment of the fire, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings.
Witnesses noted that some parts of the building were pulled down to allow access to the fire. Despite the presence of basic firefighting equipment, the intensity of the fire was exacerbated by highly flammable materials inside the building.
Oke-Osanyintolu remarked, “The church had basic firefighting equipment and trained personnel, which helped manage the fire. However, the presence of flammable materials intensified the blaze. Our teamwork ensured the fire did not spread further, and no casualties were reported.”
During a live Sunday service at the church’s campground in Asese, Ogun State, Oyakhilome described the incident as an opportunity for renewal. “Nothing happens by accident in a child of God’s life. We will build a bigger, better, and more glorious structure, turning this setback into a victory,” he said.
Ibitayo Adenike, Head of the Search and Rescue Unit at the Lagos Territorial Office of the National Emergency Management Agency, confirmed that the absence of worshippers at the time of the fire helped prevent casualties. “There were only a few people in a meeting when the fire started, which prevented any casualties,” Adenike explained.
Margaret Adeseye, Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, stated that an investigation into the fire’s cause is underway. “The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, and investigations are ongoing. No casualties have been reported, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” Adeseye said.
