By OLA MUDOPE, Lagos –
Death toll from a 21-story building under construction which collapsed in Ikoyi Area of Lagos State, on Monday, rose to fifteen on Tuesday as authorities intensified search and rescue efforts.
While four persons were killed and five others rescued as of Monday night, the death toll and number of survivors rose on Tuesday as rescue efforts continued through the night.
The coordinator of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) in Lagos, Ibrahim Farinloye, told newsmen at the scene of the accident that rescuers have recovered 11 more bodies bringing the death toll to fifteen, while ten people so far had been rescued alive.
Mr. Farinloye said rescue operations at the structure that collapse are still underway, despite the heavy rains and windstorm on Monday night.
He said what caused the collapse remains unclear, and an investigation is underway.
Residents living in the area, however, told newsmen that the building was under construction for over one year.
Building collapses often occur in Nigeria, as some property owners and developers do not adhere strictly to planning and building laws and regulations.
