The LASEMA building collapse report circulating on social media has been debunked by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency.
Officials confirmed that no new building collapse occurred in the Alakija area of Lagos State, the clarification followed viral claims that suggested a fresh building collapse in the community, days after an earlier tragic incident in the same area.
The Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed the development in a statement on Thursday, he said the agency activated its emergency response system immediately after the reports emerged.
Officials quickly moved to the reported location to verify the claim. They carried out a full assessment of the area.
After the search, responders found no evidence of any second building collapse in the community.
“Following the receipt of the information, the Agency immediately deployed personnel to assess the reported location,” the statement read. “After a thorough sweep of the area, no evidence of a second building collapse was found.”
Oke-Osanyintolu said the agency treats all emergency reports seriously, especially those that may involve loss of life. He added that rapid verification helps prevent confusion and ensures effective response.
He also warned that false emergency reports can cause serious harm. According to him, misinformation diverts emergency resources and delays response to real incidents.
Such delays can put lives at risk, he stressed.
The LASEMA boss urged residents to verify information before sharing it on social media. He also asked the public to use official channels when reporting emergencies so responders can confirm incidents quickly.
Despite the false alarm, he commended residents for staying alert and reporting suspected emergencies. He assured that the agency remains committed to protecting lives and property across Lagos State.
“Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, LASEMA and all emergency agencies remain fully committed to protecting lives and property through prompt, coordinated and professional response,” he said.
The clarification comes shortly after a confirmed building collapse in the same Alakija area. That earlier incident involved a two storey building that collapsed, killing nine people and injuring 27 others.
Emergency responders carried out a two-day rescue operation at the site. They recovered all victims trapped under the rubble before ending the operation.
Authorities say the false report highlights the growing problem of misinformation during emergencies in Lagos. They warn that unverified social media posts can spread quickly before official confirmation.
