Ikoyi building disaster: Tinubu opens up, backs Sanwo-Olu’s inquest

Former Lagos Governor and National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Tinubu, has said the Lagos state government and its citizens should see Monday’s collapse of a 21-storey building  in Ikoyi as a huge disaster and deterrent against flouting the law which could lead to devastating consequences.

Recall that the building still under construction collapsed on Monday, trapping over 50 people inside it. At least 14 persons have been confirmed dead including the developer, Femi Osibona and his female personal assistant.

Nine persons have also been rescued alive as rescue operations intensified into Tuesday night.

Tinubu in a statement personally signed by him implored all stakeholders to work in synergy in order to avoid future occurrences.

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“As much as we are in collective pain and grief, we must also be clear and focused. Let us use this tragedy to serve as a strong warning and deterrent to end any misconduct that might in any way contribute to such an incident.

“We must never become numb to the tragedies that befall others; we must work and strive to put an end to these frightening events and the brutal, but avoidable deaths that go with them,’’ Tinubu stated.

He also threw his support behind the decision of the Lagos State Government to commence an inquest into the circumstances that led to the collapse of a 21-storey building at Ikoyi.

Tinubu noted that this probe is necessary in order to engender public trust due to questions surrounding the unfortunate incident.

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“It is obvious to us that something went terribly wrong. If indeed intentional or reckless wrongdoing has been committed, appropriate sanctions should find those who have been found to have shirked their fundamental responsibilities.

“The departed, their grieving families and the people of Lagos State deserve no less and should perhaps demand even more,’’ Tinubu said.

He added that the government and residents must reach out to the bereaved families with both prayer and practical support and assistance during this terrible moment.