Final rescue operations conclude; investigation into structural failure begins as authorities assess regulatory failures
The death toll from the collapse of a three-storey shopping complex at Alakija has risen to nine following the conclusion of search and rescue operations on Friday morning.
The updated figure represents a significant increase from initial reports that indicated fewer casualties during the ongoing rescue efforts.
According to the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, “As of 4:20 p.m., a total of 26 persons had been rescued, while nine fatalities, including a baby girl, had been recorded. There are reports that additional persons, including shop owners who had resumed business, may still be trapped.”
Emergency responders mobilised within 40 minutes of the incident. LASEMA’s Sharks Response Team from Lekki Base and Alpha Cobra Squad from Onipanu arrived at the scene alongside other emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Ambulance Service and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority.
Multi-agency operation reaches ground zero
The rescue operation involved coordination across multiple government agencies and private sector partners. Oke-Osanyintolu stated:
“We have deployed sophisticated equipment, including both heavy-duty and light-duty machinery. All first responders in Lagos State are on the ground, and rescue efforts are continuing.”
The LASEMA boss expressed optimism during ongoing operations:
“With the technology and manpower at our disposal, we remain hopeful. If there is anyone alive beneath the debris, that person will be rescued.”
Rescue operations were suspended at 4:00 am on Friday, 26 June, after responders reached ground zero. The conclusion of the operation followed systematic search efforts throughout the night and early morning hours.
Eyewitness accounts describe collapse horror
Eyewitnesses reported that residents, commuters and business operators fled for safety before regrouping to assist in rescue efforts. The rapid evacuation by occupants who were present at the time of the collapse may have significantly reduced the casualty toll.
Initial rescue efforts proved successful. Two victims were among the first to be pulled out alive through the combined efforts of LASEMA, the Lagos State Building Control Agency and the China Railway Construction Corporation Company.
Authorities investigating cause of the collapse
The cause of the collapse remains under investigation. Authorities have not disclosed preliminary findings regarding structural or construction defects that may have contributed to the disaster.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has directed the Lagos State Building Control Agency to inspect nearby structures and enforce compliance with building safety regulations. This directive aims to prevent similar incidents in the surrounding area.
Victims and condolences
All rescued victims and recovered bodies were transported to Navy Town Hospital in Alakija for treatment and proper handling. LASEMA expressed condolences to the families of those who died and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
The incident marks another tragedy in Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with building safety and structural integrity enforcement. The collapse occurred just one day after a separate building collapse in Rivers State on 24 June 2026, highlighting persistent concerns about construction standards and regulatory oversight across the country.
