Religion

Christ Embassy Building Faces Potential Demolition After Fire Incident, LASEMA Warns

Written by Jerry Alomatu on June 24, 2024

News Views: 405

The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has indicated that the Christ Embassy building on Billings Way, Oregun, in Ikeja, Lagos State, might be demolished if it fails an integrity test following a fire incident early Sunday morning.

Rev Chris Oyakhilome, the President and founder of LoveWorld Incorporated, also known as Christ Embassy, announced plans to rebuild a bigger and better structure to replace the damaged building.

LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, while speaking at the scene, stated that the intensity of the fire had caused structural defects, including cracks in the walls, necessitating an integrity test to determine the building’s safety.

“We have seen a lot of structural defects; there are cracks on the walls, and we are carrying out evacuation so that the place will be safe,” Oke-Osanyintolu said. “We will ensure to subject the building to an integrity test where we can determine the next line of action. We cannot demolish at this moment until an integrity test is carried out. If it is not safe, then we will take the next action.”

The fire, which started around 7:30 am, was contained by emergency responders, preventing it from spreading to adjoining buildings. Some parts of the building were pulled down to access the sections engulfed in flames.

Oke-Osanyintolu noted that the presence of highly flammable materials intensified the fire, although the church had basic firefighting equipment and trained personnel.

Reacting to the incident, Oyakhilome, during a live service at the church’s campground in Asese, Ogun State, expressed optimism about rebuilding. “Now that this has happened, we will build a bigger, better, and more glorious one, and the devil will lick his wounds,” he said.

Ibitayo Adenike, Head of the Search and Rescue Unit of the Lagos Territorial Office of the National Emergency Management Agency, noted that the absence of worshippers at the time of the fire helped prevent casualties.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has commenced an investigation into the cause of the fire. Director Margaret Adeseye confirmed that no casualties were reported and that more information would be provided as the investigation progresses.