A devastating building collapse in Ibadan, Oyo State, has claimed the lives of five children and grandchildren of local landlord Pa Bibire Lamidi, leaving the community in shock and grief.
The incident occurred around 2 a.m. at a single-storey structure in the Jegede area of Ona Ara Local Government. According to eyewitnesses, the building collapsed suddenly, trapping several occupants inside.
Alhaja Yidiatu Lamidi, one of Pa Lamidi’s wives, recounted the horrific events, stating,
My husband had just finished using the lavatory when he witnessed the sudden collapse of our home. His children and grandchildren were among those trapped, along with some mentally ill patients he cares for, who also lost their lives in the disaster.
Notably, Yidiatu revealed that the building had shown no signs of weakness or deterioration before the incident, leading her to attribute the tragedy to spiritual attacks.
Emergency responders swiftly sprang into action, responding to multiple distress calls from the surrounding community. Akinyemi Akinyinka, General Manager of Oyo State Fire Services, confirmed the prompt response.
Oyo State Police spokesperson Adewale Osifeso reported that the tragedy resulted in ten fatalities, with eight others sustaining severe injuries. To ensure public safety and prevent looting, security measures have been heightened in the area.
An investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the collapse. Meanwhile, Pa Lamidi remains hospitalized, receiving treatment for undisclosed injuries sustained during the incident.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this devastating event, residents mourn the loss of young lives and demand answers to the tragic questions surrounding the building’s collapse.
