The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) on Sunday morning confirmed that three fatalities have so far been recorded at the site of the building collapse at Oremeta Street, Ojodu Berger, Lagos.

The uncompleted but occupied three-storey building collapsed at about 8:a.m on Saturday, leaving an unspecified number of people trapped in the rubble.

The ground floor of the building, which is the only part of the building in use, was occupied by a popular restaurant known as ‘Equal Right Restaurant’, and served as a hotspot for residents who crave relaxation.

Providing an update on its search and rescue effort which extended into midnight, LASEMA in a post on its Instagram page posted at I2:40 AM, April 20, 2025, reads: ”Following the collapse of a 3-storey building at 10 Oremeta Street, Ojodu-Berger, LASEMA and other emergency responders have continued around-the-clock rescue operations.14 victims in total, with 11 rescued alive, while 3 fatalities were recorded (2 females, 1 adult male).

Rescue operations remain ongoing as efforts continue through the night to ensure no one is left behind. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We appreciate the commitment of all agencies working tirelessly on the ground.”

Meanwhile, a resident who pleaded anonymity revealed that residents had condemned the construction of an additional floor on the building by a contractor handling the project.

Also speaking during a visit on Saturday, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr Olumide Oluyinka, cautioned residents against occupying uncompleted buildings as it poses a huge threat to their lives.

Oluyinka argued that the building collapsed because it was abandoned, without plastering for a long time, which likely weakened over time by moisture.

The commissioner also noted that the building was unsuitable for the commercial activities taking place on the ground floor.