NANS Calls for Investigation into Lagos Building Collapse and Demands Accountability

The South‑West Zone D chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has expressed sympathy for the victims of the recent building collapse in Lekki, Lagos State, and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.

The student group urged authorities to hold anyone found responsible for the tragedy accountable.

In a statement released on Saturday by its Public Relations Officer, Tope Olugbemi, NANS extended condolences to the family of Mr. John Asabere, who was reportedly among those who lost their lives in the collapse.

The association described Mr. Asabere as a dedicated family man and breadwinner, whose death has left his loved ones in grief.

The organisation condemned the recurring building collapses across the country, especially in Lagos State, arguing that many could be prevented through strict adherence to approved construction standards and effective oversight by regulatory agencies.

“It is disheartening that despite advancements in construction technology and regulatory frameworks, avoidable structural failures continue to claim lives that could have been saved through strict compliance with building standards and effective monitoring,” the statement read.
“We are compelled to question the role of relevant regulatory authorities, particularly the Lagos State Building Control Agency, whose responsibility includes ensuring that construction projects adhere strictly to approved specifications and safety regulations. Incidents of this nature should have become a thing of the past if all necessary preventive measures and oversight responsibilities had been diligently carried out,” it added.

The association also expressed concern over allegations that efforts were being made to minimise the scale of the disaster and conceal information about the casualties at the site.

“Even more disturbing are allegations that attempts have been made to downplay the severity of the incident and suppress information relating to the fatalities recorded at the site. If proven true, such actions represent a gross disregard for human life, an abuse of influence, and a deliberate attempt to deny grieving families the justice and closure they deserve,” the statement said.
“NANS Southwest therefore calls on all relevant security and investigative agencies to conduct a thorough, transparent, and unbiased investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collapse. We urge authorities to resist any form of interference, intimidation, or cover‑up that may compromise the integrity of the investigation,” it added.

The association maintained that a transparent probe and strict enforcement of building regulations are necessary to prevent future occurrences and restore public confidence in the country’s construction oversight system.