Collapse of buildings and the application of law in Nigeria

Abstract

The spate of collapse of buildings in Nigeria is becoming more alarming and unprecedented especially in the last one year resulting in an incalculable loss of human lives and materials. This paper takes a look at the issue of collapse of buildings and the application of law system in Nigeria. It examines the Lagos State urban and planning law as a tool to guarantee safe and healthy buildings in the building industry. Some of the causes of collapsed buildings are highlighted. This paper concludes that appropriate sanctions and punitive measures are needed to reduce the loss of both human lives and materials whenever a building collapse.