The Lagos State Chairman of the Real Estate Development Association of Nigeria, REDAN, Dr. Tony Aspire Kolawole, has condemned the recurring incidence of building collapses in Nigeria.
In a statement, Dr. Kolawole expressed sadness over the recent two devastating building collapses within 48 hours in two Nigerian cities: a five-storey building in Rivers State on June 24, and a three-storey building in Alakija, Lagos, the following day, June 25.
“We mourn with every family affected. We pray for the safe rescue of all those still trapped. And we refuse to look away. But grief alone is not enough. We must be honest about what is killing our people,” Kolawole said.
He stated that buildings do not collapse by accident rather they collapse because someone cut corners on materials.
“Because approvals were obtained through compromise rather than compliance. Because inspections were skipped, ignored, or bypassed. Because we have normalised the abnormal, and innocent Nigerians are paying with their lives,” he said.
Kolawole then called for stronger enforcement and accountability from LASBCA and all State building control agencies.
He urged them to immediately intensify physical inspections of existing structures across all states, beginning with high-density residential areas.
The REDAN boss also called on the Lagos State House of Assembly to urgently strengthen existing building control laws, increase legislative oversight of the building approval process, and enact stiffer sanctions against developers, professionals and public officials found culpable of compromising building standards.
“The era of weak enforcement and regulatory loopholes must come to an end,” he said.
The Real Estate Developers also enjoined the State Governments to prosecute, not just demolish.
“Developers, contractors, consultants and property owners who violate building codes must face the full weight of the law. Demolition without prosecution is not deterrence,” he stated.
The association also called on fellow developers and real estate practitioners to recommit to ethical practice.
“Our industry exists to shelter people, not to endanger them. Every substandard project any of us approves is a time bomb,” he said.
Nigerians buying or renting property were not left out as they are to demand documentation, approved building plans, structural certifications and developer credentials before committing to any property.
Industry position
REDAN said it has consistently advocated for stronger regulatory enforcement, mandatory developer certification, and reform of the building approval process.
“These collapses are a painful reminder that advocacy must become action at every level of government. The real estate industry must be part of the solution. We will not be silent while avoidable negligence continues to claim innocent lives,” Kolawole stated.
He extended condolences to the families of all victims. “May God grant the injured quick recovery, and may those still trapped be brought out alive,” he added.
