Tragedy Strikes Ibadan: Exclusive Interview with Pa Lamidi Olapade, Owner of Collapsed Building
.....Narrates how he lost his wife and 5 children
The devastating building collapse in Jegede area of Ibadan has left many in shock and grief. In an exclusive interview with Egalitarian Voice correspondent Damilare Moses, Pa Lamidi Olapade, owner of the collapsed building, recounted the tragic events.
"I used my house to care for people with mental health issues," Pa Olapade explained, his voice trembling. "It was in good condition until the disastrous collapse happened around 12 a.m. on Thursday morning."
The building, a story-high structure with 16 rooms, housed 21 individuals, including those receiving mental health care myself staff members.
"Everything happened so fast," Pa Olapade recalled. "I was in my room when I heard a loud noise. I rushed out to see the building crumbling. It was like a nightmare as I lost one of my wife and 5 children in the incident"
Tragically, 10 people (6 males, 4 females) lost their lives, while 11 others were injured.
Neighborhood residents described the scene as chaotic, with people screaming and trying to rescue those trapped.
"I was awakened by the loud noise," said Mrs. Funke Adeyemo, a nearby resident. "I rushed out to see the building collapsed. It was horrific."
Emergency responders and local authorities swiftly responded to the scene, working tirelessly to rescue survivors.
"We did our best to save as many lives as possible," said Hon Idris Olapade, Ona-Ara Local Government Supervisory councilor for Environment, a rescue team member. "It was a difficult operation, but we're grateful for the lives saved."
Ona-Ara Local Government Chairman and Honourable Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development in Oyo State
"This is a tragic loss," said Hon. Chief (Dr.) Ezekiel Temitope Oladimeji (OTOPE), who visited the scene. "My thoughts are with the families of the victims."
Oyo State government have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse.
The Ibadan building collapse serves as a stark reminder of the need for stricter building codes and regular maintenance.
Egalitarian Voice extends condolences to the families of the victims.
May their souls rest in peace.
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