A classroom block at Odokekere High School in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State collapsed on Thursday, January 15, 2026, while students were present. The incident caused significant panic among parents and local residents who rushed to the scene upon hearing the news.
Timely Evacuation Prevents Tragedy
Despite the frightening event, no casualties were recorded. Eyewitness accounts and official reports confirm that students were hurriedly evacuated from the deteriorating structure moments before it completely gave way. This swift action ensured the safety of all pupils, averting a potential major disaster.
Government Response and Pre-Marked Demolition
In a statement released on Friday, January 16, 2026, the Lagos State Special Committee on Rehabilitation of Public Schools (SCRPS) provided crucial context. The committee revealed that the collapsed classroom block had already been identified and marked for demolition prior to the incident.
The SCRPS, which was re-inaugurated in November 2019, stated that plans were in motion to replace the old structure with a modern facility capable of accommodating the school's large student population.
Immediate Relocation and Reconstruction Plans
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has ordered the immediate relocation of the affected students to nearby schools. This measure is intended to prevent any disruption to their academic activities and calendar.
Furthermore, the state government has announced plans for immediate reconstruction. A team from the SCRPS was scheduled to visit the school on the day of the statement for an on-the-spot assessment. This assessment will enable the government to finalize modalities and begin the immediate construction of an ultra-modern classroom block at Odokekere High School.
The government's statement expressed regret over the incident but emphasized the pre-existing plan to demolish and rebuild the inadequate structure.
