The Lagos State Government has started the controlled demolition of the fire-damaged building on Martins Street, Lagos Island. This work is being done through the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA).
Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, shared this information in a statement to the News Agency of Nigeria on Friday.
He said, "The exercise followed a comprehensive structural assessment and would be carried out in line with international best practices in urban safety, disaster risk management and public health protection."
Oke-Osanyintolu also said, "I advise traders, residents, customers and members of the public to comply strictly with all safety directives" during the demolition.
He announced that the building and its surroundings have been declared a restricted and dangerous area. He warned, "No unauthorised person should enter the premises, while traders and customers should keep a safe distance to avoid injuries from falling debris or possible structural collapse."
All trading, parking, loading, and other commercial activities around the building are on hold until the area is declared safe by the right authorities. The permanent secretary mentioned that the site has been barricaded with warning signs, and security personnel are on ground to prevent unauthorised access and manage crowds.
He explained that the demolition contractor will do a final structural assessment before starting work. They will make sure to follow all safety rules.
According to him, the site will remain "cordoned off throughout the operation, with dust suppression measures as well as traffic and pedestrian management plans in place."
Oke-Osanyintolu said all workers on site must wear the right Personal Protective Equipment. He added that operators of heavy machinery must ensure all equipment is safe for use.
Emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lagos State Ambulance Service, and first aid personnel, will be on standby throughout the work.
He stated that the demolition team would work alongside the Lagos State Building Control Agency, the Nigeria Police Force, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps, and other relevant agencies.
The permanent secretary noted that ongoing public awareness would be done to discourage residents, traders, and onlookers from gathering around the site until the work is completed. He recognized the economic significance of Martins Street to the Lagos Island business community but explained that safety measures are needed to protect lives and property.
Oke-Osanyintolu urged residents to cooperate with security and emergency personnel. He advised them to report any safety issues through LASEMA Response Units or the emergency toll-free lines 112 and 767.
He thanked the Martins Street community for their patience, understanding, and cooperation while the government works to restore safety and normalcy to the area.
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