The Lagos State Government, through its Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), has responded to 1,508 incidents in 2024.

Data released by the agency yesterday revealed that November recorded 141 incidents, equalling January’s total. The highest monthly figures were in February (156), March (148), May (147), and October (147), while August had the fewest (121). Since June 1, 2019, LASEMA has handled 7,950 emergencies.

In November, the agency recorded 46 road accidents, followed by 32 truck-related incidents, including 19 accidents, eight breakdowns, three fallen containers, and two fallen trucks. Other incidents included 24 fire outbreaks, 22 medical emergencies, three assaults, and one impending building collapse.

Local council analysis showed Alimosho recorded the highest number of incidents in November, with 21. Oshodi/Isolo, Ikeja, and Lagos Island councils followed with 14 incidents each, while Kosofe recorded 13. Conversely, Ifako-Ijaiye reported no incidents. Across 2024, Alimosho recorded 241 incidents, Ikeja 163, and Eti-Osa 145, with Badagry having the lowest at four.

A breakdown of 2024 incidents shows the truck/tanker category ranked highest with 464 cases, including 316 accidents, 118 breakdowns, and 17 fallen trucks or tankers. Road accidents followed with 400 cases, comprising 380 vehicle crashes and 18 breakdowns. Fire disasters ranked third, with 252 incidents, including 235 fire outbreaks and six tanker fires. Medical emergencies came fourth, with 230 cases, including seven dead bodies and three attempted suicides.

Other incidents included 31 building collapses (24 full collapses), eight explosions, six marine accidents, and five spillage cases. Alimosho, with its large population, recorded the highest overall incidents, reflecting its vulnerability.

From January to November 2024, 971 general emergencies and 537 medical emergencies were recorded. November had the highest medical emergencies (60), followed by January and April (53 each), while August recorded the fewest (41). The monthly trend highlights the agency’s efforts in handling varied emergencies across the state.

Since Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration began in June 2019, LASEMA has recorded significant activity: 513 incidents in 2019, 1,043 in 2020, 1,743 in 2021, 1,682 in 2022, and 1,461 in 2023. The 2024 figure of 1,508 incidents by November 30 reflects a rise in emergency response efforts. The peak year remains 2021, with 1,743 cases, but the steady decline in subsequent years suggests improved preventive measures.