PeakNews Online
Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has indicated that the Christ Embassy building on Billings Way, Oregun, Ikeja, which was ravaged by fire early Sunday morning, might be demolished if it fails an upcoming integrity test.
Rev. Chris Oyakhilome, President and founder of LoveWorld Incorporated (Christ Embassy), has pledged to rebuild a better and bigger structure to replace the damaged building.
LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, addressed journalists at the scene, stating that the intensity of the fire had caused significant structural damage, including cracks in the walls, necessitating an integrity assessment.
“We have identified several structural defects, including wall cracks, and are conducting an evacuation to ensure safety,” Oke-Osanyintolu said. “We will subject the building to an integrity test to determine our next steps. If the building is deemed unsafe, we will proceed accordingly. We are collaborating with the church, which has facilitated our swift response to the fire.”
The fire, which started around 7:30 am, was contained by emergency responders, preventing it from spreading to nearby buildings. Some parts of the building were demolished to allow access to areas engulfed in flames.
Oke-Osanyintolu noted that while the church had basic firefighting equipment, the presence of highly flammable materials exacerbated the fire. “There were likely many flammable items like curtains inside. However, their basic firefighting equipment and trained personnel helped prevent the fire from spreading and causing casualties.”
Rev. Oyakhilome, speaking during a live Sunday service at the church’s campground in Asese, Ogun State, expressed optimism despite the incident. “Nothing happens in the life of a child of God by accident. When the 2001 Ikeja cantonment bombing occurred, we thought our building might collapse, but it didn’t. Now, we will build a bigger, better, and more glorious one.”
The Head of the Search and Rescue Unit at the Lagos Territorial Office of the National Emergency Management Agency, Ibitayo Adenike, highlighted that the absence of worshippers at the time of the fire prevented casualties. “Only a few people were in a meeting when the fire started, which helped avoid potential casualties.”
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS) has commenced an investigation into the cause of the fire. “The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and investigations are ongoing,” said LSFRS Director Margaret Adeseye. “No casualties have been reported at this time. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
Peaknews Online will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they emerge.
