Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, has commenced the controlled demolition of the fire-damaged building located on Martins Street, Lagos Island, as part of efforts to safeguard lives and property.
The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, announced the development in a statement issued on Friday, saying the exercise followed a comprehensive structural integrity assessment of the affected building.
According to him, the demolition is being carried out in accordance with internationally recognised standards on urban safety, disaster risk reduction and public health protection.
Oke-Osanyintolu urged residents, traders, customers and other members of the public to strictly comply with all safety measures put in place throughout the operation.
He disclosed that the affected structure and its immediate surroundings had been designated as a restricted and hazardous zone, warning that unauthorised persons must stay away from the area.
The permanent secretary advised traders and customers to maintain a safe distance from the site to avoid injuries that could result from falling debris or the possible collapse of unstable sections of the building.
He further announced the temporary suspension of trading, parking, loading and other commercial activities around the affected location until relevant authorities certify the area safe for public use.
To ensure public safety, Oke-Osanyintolu said the site has been barricaded and fitted with warning signs, while security personnel have been deployed to prevent unauthorised access and control movement around the area.
He added that the demolition contractor would conduct a final structural inspection before work begins and ensure strict compliance with all approved safety procedures.
The permanent secretary explained that the site would remain cordoned off throughout the demolition, with dust suppression measures and traffic and pedestrian management plans implemented to minimise disruptions and protect the public.
He also directed that all personnel participating in the operation must wear the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, PPE, while operators of heavy-duty machinery are required to ensure that all equipment is properly certified and safe for use.
According to him, emergency response agencies, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lagos State Ambulance Service and first aid teams, will remain on standby for the duration of the exercise.
He noted that the demolition is being coordinated in collaboration with the Lagos State Building Control Agency, LASBCA, the Nigeria Police Force, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps, LNSC, and other relevant agencies.
Oke-Osanyintolu said public awareness campaigns would continue throughout the exercise to discourage residents, traders and bystanders from gathering around the demolition site until the operation is concluded.
While acknowledging the commercial significance of Martins Street to businesses on Lagos Island, he stressed that the restrictions were necessary to protect lives and prevent further danger.
He appealed to residents and business owners to cooperate with emergency and security personnel and encouraged the public to report any safety concerns through LASEMA Response Units or the emergency toll-free numbers 112 and 767.
The permanent secretary also expressed appreciation to members of the Martins Street community for their patience, understanding and support as the government works to restore safety and normal activities in the area.
LASEMA commences demolition of fire-ravaged building on Lagos Island
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