The Oyo State Government has announced its commitment to conducting integrity tests on all buildings in the vicinity of a collapsed storey building in the Ojugbede Jegede Area of Ogbere, Ibadan, which resulted in the deaths of 10 individuals and the rescue of seven others. The building, owned by 80-year-old Babare Lamidi, reportedly claimed the lives of five of his grandchildren in the tragedy.
During a visit to the site, our correspondent noted that security personnel had cordoned off the area. An anonymous eyewitness, not authorized to speak publicly, shared that the state government has promised to perform integrity tests on all nearby structures to prevent future incidents.
According to the eyewitness, a government delegation led by the Commissioner for Lands and Urban Development, Williams Akin-Funmilayo, visited the community to express condolences and inform residents about the planned tests.
Another source stated that the building was already in a distressed condition, which contributed to its collapse. Police Commissioner Ayodele Sonubi, who also visited the site, confirmed that the collapse resulted in 10 fatalities, with eight others suffering from serious injuries. He added that security measures have been implemented to prevent looting at the scene and to protect the residents' safety and property.
An ongoing investigation is being conducted to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. Yemi Akinyinka, the general manager of the state fire services, confirmed that they received a distress call around 2 a.m. from the area. He reported that 10 people were recovered from the debris, while nine others were rescued, and rescue operations are still ongoing.
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