Panic erupted at Odokekere Community Junior Secondary School, Odogunyan, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, on Thursday, January 15, 2026, when a classroom building collapsed during school hours. Miraculously, pupils and teachers had evacuated moments earlier, avoiding injuries.
Emergency teams from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) and the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) confirmed that no one was trapped in the debris. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu ordered affected students to be relocated to nearby schools and fast-tracked the rebuilding of the structure, which had already been slated for demolition due to structural defects.
Witnesses reported that the collapse occurred while academic activities were ongoing. Videos shared on social media, including clips posted by TikTok user B Boss and monitored by Citizens Compass, showed onlookers at the scene as students, teachers, and local residents expressed relief and gratitude for avoiding a tragedy.
The incident drew widespread reactions online, with many praising the timely escape of students and staff, while others criticised authorities for the alleged neglect of public school infrastructure.
In response, Chairman of Ikorodu North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Mayor Ameen Apanisile, visited the school to assess the situation. In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Adinlewa Oluwafemi, Mayor Apanisile confirmed that the unsafe section had been evacuated and instructed relevant technical officers to urgently evaluate the building and carry out necessary repairs.
“The safety of students, teachers, and school staff remains our top priority,” he said, assuring parents and residents of the council’s commitment to a safe learning environment.
Reports indicate the collapse came just days after students resumed for the new academic term following the Yuletide break, highlighting concerns over the condition of aging public school buildings in Lagos State.
