The Lagos State Government has commenced the controlled demolition of a fire-damaged building on Martins Street, Lagos Island, following a structural assessment that identified the property as a safety risk to residents, traders and members of the public.
The exercise is being coordinated by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) as part of efforts to prevent further hazards and restore safety in the area.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, said the demolition followed a comprehensive structural integrity assessment and would be carried out in accordance with international standards for urban safety, disaster management and public health protection.
He explained that the affected building and its surrounding environment had been designated a restricted and hazardous zone pending the completion of the operation.
According to him, members of the public have been advised to avoid the area, while traders, residents and customers have been directed to comply strictly with all safety instructions issued by emergency management authorities.
Oke-Osanyintolu warned that unauthorised access to the premises could expose individuals to risks associated with falling debris and possible structural collapse.
He added that commercial activities, including trading, parking, loading and offloading operations around the building, have been temporarily suspended until relevant authorities certify the area safe for public use.
The permanent secretary disclosed that the site has been secured with barricades and warning signs, while security personnel have been deployed to restrict access and manage crowd movement throughout the demolition exercise.
He noted that the demolition contractor would conduct a final structural review before work begins and ensure strict compliance with established safety regulations.
As part of precautionary measures, the site will remain cordoned off during the operation, with dust-control mechanisms, traffic management strategies and pedestrian safety plans put in place to minimise disruptions and safeguard nearby businesses and residents.
Oke-Osanyintolu further stated that all personnel involved in the demolition must wear appropriate personal protective equipment, while operators of heavy machinery are required to ensure that all equipment deployed to the site is certified and fit for operation.
He said emergency response teams, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the Lagos State Ambulance Service and other first responders, would remain on standby throughout the exercise.
The demolition is being carried out in collaboration with the Lagos State Building Control Agency, the Nigeria Police Force, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority and the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps.
While acknowledging the economic significance of Martins Street to Lagos Island’s commercial activities, Oke-Osanyintolu stressed that the temporary restrictions were necessary to protect lives and property.
He urged residents to cooperate with emergency officials and report safety concerns through LASEMA’s emergency response channels.
