Lagos begins controlled demolition of fire-damaged Martins Street building

The Lagos State Government has started demolishing a fire-damaged building on Martins Street, Lagos Island, in line with international best practices in urban safety.

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) says the exercise follows a comprehensive structural assessment of the building and is aimed at ensuring the area is safe for residents and traders.

Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, warned traders, residents, customers, and members of the public against unauthorised access to the affected building and its surroundings.

According to him, the building and its immediate surroundings have been declared a restricted and hazardous area, with security personnel deployed to prevent unauthorised access and manage crowds.

'Due to the hazardous nature of the building, it's extremely essential that all unauthorised persons maintain a safe distance to prevent potential injuries from falling debris or possible structural collapse,' Dr Oke-Osanyintolu said.

He added that all personnel on the site must wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, while operators of heavy machinery must ensure all equipment is certified fit for use.

Emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Ambulance Service, and first aid personnel, will remain on standby throughout the exercise.

Dr Oke-Osanyintolu also acknowledged the economic importance of Martins Street to the Lagos Island business community, but stressed the need for precautionary measures to protect lives and property.

Traders and customers have been advised to keep a safe distance from the affected building and avoid gathering around the site until the exercise is completed.

The demolition team will work closely with relevant agencies, including the Lagos State Building Control Agency, the Nigeria Police Force, Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps, and others.

Oke-Osanyintolu said public sensitisation efforts will be continuous to discourage residents, traders, and onlookers from gathering around the site until the exercise is completed.

He urged residents to cooperate with security and emergency personnel and to report safety concerns through LASEMA Response Units or the emergency toll-free lines 112 and 767.

Key Facts:

  • The demolition exercise follows a comprehensive structural assessment of the building.
  • The building and its surroundings have been declared a restricted and hazardous area.
  • Security personnel have been deployed to prevent unauthorised access and manage crowds.
  • Emergency responders will remain on standby throughout the exercise.
  • Traders and customers have been advised to keep a safe distance from the affected building.
  • Public sensitisation efforts will be continuous to discourage gathering around the site.