Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, LASEMA, has commenced the controlled demolition of the fire-damaged building located on Martins Street, Lagos Island, as part of efforts to safeguard lives and property.
The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, announced the development in a statement issued on Friday, saying the exercise followed a comprehensive structural integrity assessment of the affected building.
According to him, the demolition is being carried out in accordance with internationally recognised standards on urban safety, disaster risk reduction and public health protection.
Oke-Osanyintolu urged residents, traders, customers and other members of the public to strictly comply with all safety measures put in place throughout the operation.
He disclosed that the affected structure and its immediate surroundings had been designated as a restricted and hazardous zone, warning that unauthorised persons must stay away from the area.
The permanent secretary advised traders and customers to maintain a safe distance from the site to avoid injuries that could result from falling debris or the possible collapse of unstable sections of the building.
He further announced the temporary suspension of trading, parking, loading and other commercial activities around the affected location until relevant authorities certify the area safe for public use.
To ensure public safety, Oke-Osanyintolu said the site has been barricaded and fitted with warning signs, while security personnel have been deployed to prevent unauthorised access and control movement around the area.
He added that the demolition contractor would conduct a final structural inspection before
