The Lagos State Safety Commission has initiated an investigation over a civil engineer, Olalekan Oloruntoba, who reportedly died while operating a crane at a construction site.
The commission’s spokesperson, Adewunmi Okoh, confirmed the investigation at the weekend, emphasising the commission’s commitment to uncovering the circumstances of the incident.
Sources at the construction site, who requested anonymity due to concerns for their privacy, revealed that the accident occurred on September 23.
Witnesses recounted that Oloruntoba, affectionately known as “Oloriebi,” was assisting with crane operations when the equipment malfunctioned.
Attempting to support the crane as it lifted heavy materials, Oloruntoba lost control of the machine, which subsequently collapsed on him, causing fatal injuries.
“The crane got hooked, and controlling it became increasingly difficult. He tried to escape when he realized the gravity of the situation, but the crane fell on him,” a source close to the deceased said.
Images from the scene showed Oloruntoba lying lifeless with his head and face covered in blood.
Oloruntoba was a civil engineering graduate of the Kwara State University and Kwara State Polytechnic. Known as a dedicated professional, he had previously worked for the construction firm as an undergraduate and joined the company as a contract staff member.
Friends and colleagues took to social media to mourn Oloruntoba, describing him as a passionate and committed engineer.
Adeyemi Adetoyese, an associate, wrote on his social media page: “It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of our dear brother and vibrant civil engineering professional… Good night, Lekan Oloriebi. We love you, but Jesus loves you more.”
Another friend, Temitope Abdulwasiu, remembered Oloruntoba as “very humble and willing to give everything it took.” A third associate, Sani Abubakar, noted his friend’s dedication to his career and plans to further his studies, adding, “He was intensely passionate about professional growth.”
The Lagos State Safety Commission’s spokesperson, Okoh, stated that the commission would be conducting a thorough inquiry into the incident and promised to share the findings.
“We will investigate and provide feedback. Just be patient with us; you know this is the weekend, and we can only gather the necessary information during the week,” she said. (Nation)