The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), South-West Zone D, has called for a comprehensive investigation into the recent building collapse in the Lekki area of Lagos State, urging authorities to ensure that all individuals found responsible are held accountable.
In a statement issued by the association’s Public Relations Officer, Tope Olugbemi, the student body expressed sympathy to the victims of the incident and extended condolences to the family of John Asabere, who was reported to have died in the collapse.
Describing Asabere as a dedicated father and family breadwinner, NANS said the tragedy underscored the devastating consequences of recurring structural failures across the country.
The association lamented the persistent cases of building collapse, particularly in Lagos State, despite existing regulations and advances in construction practices.
It argued that many of the incidents could have been prevented through strict adherence to approved building standards and effective oversight by relevant regulatory authorities.
According to the student body, it is troubling that avoidable structural failures continue to result in loss of lives when established construction guidelines and safety measures are expected to safeguard both workers and residents.
NANS also questioned the effectiveness of agencies responsible for monitoring building projects, specifically highlighting the role of the Lagos State Building Control Agency in ensuring compliance with approved construction specifications and safety regulations.
The association maintained that incidents of building collapse should no longer be commonplace if regulatory responsibilities are diligently discharged and preventive measures properly enforced.
It further expressed concern over allegations that there had been attempts to minimise the scale of the tragedy and suppress information regarding fatalities linked to the collapse.
According to the statement, any effort to conceal the true extent of the incident would amount to a disregard for human life and could deny affected families the justice and closure they deserve.
NANS South-West consequently called on security agencies and other relevant investigative bodies to carry out a transparent, impartial, and thorough probe into the circumstances surrounding the collapse.
The association urged authorities to resist any pressure, interference, or attempts at a cover-up that could undermine the credibility of the investigation, insisting that justice must be served for all victims of the tragedy.
