The Ogun State Government has launched a full-scale investigation into the collapse of a two-storey building in Ajuwon, Ifo Local Government Area, after the incident claimed the life of one person.
Governor Dapo Abiodun has directed a comprehensive technical assessment of the collapsed structure located on Baale Road, Ajuwon, as authorities move to determine what caused the disaster.
The Governor’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, disclosed in a statement issued in Abeokuta that the State remains committed to protecting residents and preventing future building-related tragedies.
The building collapsed on Monday afternoon after a severe thunderstorm, leaving several occupants trapped while others narrowly escaped.
According to preliminary findings from a multi-agency investigation team, the structure suffered a major structural failure, causing the lower floors to sink into the ground, with only parts of the upper slab visible above the rubble.
Eyewitnesses said the collapse happened around 3:00 p.m., shortly after heavy rainfall accompanied by intense thunderstorms and a reported lightning strike in the area.
Two women and their children reportedly escaped after noticing warning signs of structural distress, while a young man sustained minor injuries while trying to flee before the building gave way.
Emergency teams, including officials from the Ogun State Safety Office, State Fire Service, Ministries of Environment, Physical Planning and Urban Development, Works and Infrastructure, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Ifo Local Government Water and Environmental Sanitation Department, immediately arrived at the scene to begin rescue operations.
Contractors operating around the Akute-Alagbole and Agbado areas also moved heavy equipment to the location, joining the rescue efforts less than 10 minutes after the collapse.
Although initial searches on the surface did not reveal any victims, emergency workers discovered traces of blood and footprints beneath the debris, prompting a controlled excavation.
The operation later led to the recovery of one deceased victim, whose identity had not been confirmed at the time of this report.
The investigation team noted that while the collapse was preceded by harsh weather conditions, the exact cause of the structural failure could not be determined immediately.
Experts said only detailed structural, geotechnical and forensic engineering investigations would reveal whether the collapse was caused by foundation failure, soil instability, construction defects, poor-quality materials, or other underlying issues.
Following the development, Governor Abiodun directed specialists from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ogun State Building Control Agency, Building Production Management and Material Testing Agency, and other relevant regulatory bodies to conduct a detailed assessment of the collapsed building.
The assessment will include examining the soil condition, testing construction materials, evaluating the structure and inspecting nearby buildings to determine whether they were also affected.
The Governor expressed sadness over the incident and offered condolences to the family of the deceased while sympathising with all those affected.
He also praised emergency responders, volunteers and community members for their quick response, which helped rescue several occupants and prevent further casualties.
Abiodun assured residents that the State Government would provide necessary support to victims while investigations continue.
He warned that anyone found to have violated building regulations, altered approved plans or compromised construction standards would face prosecution.
The Ogun State Government also appreciated the Lagos State Government for its support during the emergency response, describing the cooperation as a reflection of the strong relationship between both States in protecting lives and property.
The government further urged developers, builders, artisans and residents to obtain all required approvals before beginning construction projects and strictly follow approved building plans and specifications.
It warned that unauthorised changes to building designs, the use of substandard materials and failure to comply with construction regulations could endanger lives and property.