Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu plans to remove additional structures to clean up Dosunmu Market.
He disclosed this decision during his visit to the market, which burned down on Tuesday.
Ibrahim Farinloye, Lagos Territorial Coordinator of the National Emergency Management Authority, claimed that at least 14 buildings with four collapsed during the fire outbreak.
Sanwo-Olu labeled the disaster as “preventable” and attributed it to negligence.
In a statement shared on X, the governor declared, “Dosunmu Market will not reopen until we can ensure structural safety and compliance with regulations. Unauthorized buildings will be demolished. Our dedication to market safety and organization remains steadfast.”
He added, “This is truly unfortunate. The fire broke out on Tuesday, and emergency response teams were activated. Initially, we believed it could be contained within a few hours but regrettably, due to reckless behavior from some individuals who impeded access for the responders, the site remains a hazard even after 48 hours.
“Approximately 14 buildings have been impacted, and more may face demolition following comprehensive safety assessments that will be conducted soon.
“The incident we have witnessed here could have been averted. While we await a detailed report to avoid speculation, initial findings suggest the cause of the fire was sheer carelessness and a lack of regard for safety measures. We will conduct a thorough investigation into the root cause.
“Furthermore, we have observed the conversion of many residential units into storage facilities housing flammable materials. Such practices are unacceptable, and we will not tolerate a minority disregarding regulations and endangering others. I declared yesterday that the entire vicinity will be shut down until comprehensive assessments and thorough cleanup operations are completed. Be assured that further structures will be demolished.”
Sanwo-Olu stressed that the Dosunmu Market fire should serve as a warning, emphasizing that, “The government will not evade its responsibilities; strict actions will be taken against structures and properties that violate our regulations. I will not hesitate to keep this place closed for as long as necessary; there will be no leniency in this zone.”