On September 20, 2024, Dr. Michael Adaralewa, the commandant of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Osun State, issued a critical warning to residents about the dangers posed by weak and dilapidated buildings. This urgent call for action follows a tragic incident in which a woman named Idowu lost her life when a collapsing structure in Ifetedo town fell upon her.
The unfortunate event occurred on Tuesday, September 20, 2024, when a derelict building suddenly caved in, resulting in the immediate death of Idowu, who was reportedly the only person inside the structure at the time. Eyewitness accounts describe the chaos and panic that ensued in the Omiloode area, where the building was located. A local resident, identified only as Ogunyemi, recounted how NSCDC operatives responded swiftly to the distress call, racing to the scene alongside community members to assist in the aftermath.
“Some NSCDC operatives rushed to the scene after they were informed of the incident,” Ogunyemi reported. “Idowu was the only person in the building when it happened. Tragically, she was found dead under the rubble.”
The incident has raised alarm within the community, highlighting the pressing issue of building safety standards in the region. The Public Relations Officer of the Osun NSCDC, Kehinde Adeleke, confirmed the tragic news and noted that security personnel had cordoned off the area to ensure that no further incidents occurred. She also mentioned that the deceased had already been laid to rest.
In his statement, Dr. Adaralewa expressed deep concern over the collapse and reiterated the importance of vacating structurally unsound buildings. “An abandoned dilapidated building located along Omiloode Street, Ifetedo, collapsed and claimed the life of Mrs. Idowu,” he stated. “The tragic incident occurred at approximately 5:30 PM on Tuesday. Our officers responded promptly to the scene for a rescue operation, but sadly, the woman had already passed away.”
The commandant emphasized that this incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by neglected and deteriorating structures. He urged all occupants of such buildings to vacate immediately to prevent further tragedies. “The NSCDC is committed to ensuring the safety of lives and property within the state. We will continue our efforts to monitor and address the dangers associated with weak buildings,” Adaralewa concluded.
This tragic event has reignited discussions about building safety and the need for stringent enforcement of construction regulations in Osun State. The NSCDC is now more determined than ever to work closely with local authorities and residents to identify and mitigate risks associated with hazardous structures in the community.