Lagos Building Collapse: Death Toll Rises to Two as Rescue Efforts Continue
Story: written by Joseph October 28,2025
The number of casualties from the collapsed two-storey building on Cole Street in the Oyingbo area of Lagos has increased to two, while 25 other occupants have been rescued from the rubble.
The structure came crashing down around 12:40 a.m. on Monday, trapping several residents while they slept. Emergency responders confirmed that one of the individuals initially pulled out alive later passed away at the hospital.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) reported that 26 victims in total were evacuated from the scene. The rescued persons included 20 adult males, four adult females, and two boys.
Dr. Olufemi Damilola Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, stated that a well-coordinated response involving multiple agencies ensured swift rescue operations and helped prevent further loss of life.
“Five survivors received treatment for minor injuries and were discharged. Unfortunately, one more victim who was rescued alive succumbed to injuries at the hospital. The recovered bodies have been transferred to the appropriate authorities,” he announced.
Among the agencies involved in the joint operation were the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Federal Fire Service, Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), Lagos State Ambulance Service, the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, the Red Cross, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps.
Initial assessments by LASBCA indicated that the building had visible structural defects prior to its collapse. The vicinity has been sealed off to facilitate safety inspection and further investigation into the underlying cause.
Oke-Osanyintolu praised the teamwork of first responders and volunteers, calling for continued public cooperation as recovery activities progress. He reiterated that the Lagos State Government remains committed to safeguarding residents and enforcing building regulations to prevent similar tragedies.
As of this report, most of the debris has been cleared, with rescue teams working to ensure that no additional victims remain trapped.
