Synagogue building collapse: Group laments non-prosecution of indictees at 10th anniversary

The Building Collapse Prevention Guild (BCPG) has lamented the non-prosecution of those indicted in the collapse of the seven-storey building belonging to the Synagogue Church of All Nations in Ikotun (SCOAN), Lagos State.

BCPG, an independent body of built environment professionals, disclosed this in a statement jointly signed by the coordinator of the Igando-Ikotun Cell, Mrs Adekemi Okusaga, the General Secretary, Olusola Aiyelemi, and the Publicity Secretary, Segun Fadeyi, to mark the 10th anniversary of the incident.

BCPG called on the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, Mr Lawal Pedro, to provide answers regarding the outcome of the lawsuit concerning the collapsed building.

It said: “On Friday, September 12, 2014, a tragic incident occurred when a seven-storey multipurpose building within the premises of the SCOAN in Ikotun, Lagos State, Nigeria, collapsed .

“In response to this devastating news, members of the BCPG Igando-Ikotun Cell rushed to the scene to offer assistance. Sadly, 116 people, including some foreigners, lost their lives in this catastrophic collapse, while many others sustained various degrees of injury.

“As an independent body of built environment professionals, BCPG was tasked by the Coroner’s Inquest to investigate the causes of the collapse that led to such a massive loss of lives. An intensive technical investigation was carried out pro bono, resulting in a comprehensive report instrumental in the subsequent court prosecution.

“Last Thursday marks the 10th anniversary of this unfortunate building collapse. How time flies! However, a pressing question weighs on our minds on this solemn day: What is the outcome of the court case? We hereby call on the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos State, Mr. Lawal Pedro, to provide an answer to this important and legitimate question. Justice delayed is justice denied. The lack of consequences and deterrence foster a culture of impunity.”

The group also stressed that since the fatal collapse, 306 others have been recorded in Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of no fewer than 508 people, with many others injured.

It added: “Today, BCPG members offer prayers for the repose of the souls lost and for divine comfort and protection for the bereaved. The September 12 anniversary serves as a reminder to all Nigerians to prioritise safety in building construction to prevent the continued loss of precious lives through these tragic building collapses. Prevention is superior to damage control.”