The Lagos State House of Assembly has proposed a stakeholders’ conference to address recurring fire disasters and lapses in emergency response across the state.
The call followed recent fire outbreaks at Afriland Towers and Emab Plaza on Lagos Island.
Lawmakers urged the Lagos State Fire Service to conduct regular risk assessments on high-rise and public buildings, while also calling for stricter enforcement of urban planning and building regulations.
The Assembly raised concerns over unlawful conversion of residential and public spaces into markets, absence of fire hydrants in critical buildings, poor supervision by regulatory agencies, and the use of substandard materials, all of which hinder rescue efforts and increase risks to lives and property.
Speaker Mudashiru Obasa stressed the urgent need for government collaboration with stakeholders to develop a long-term, sustainable strategy for fire prevention and improved emergency response.
Written by Olusegun Haastrup