Lagos State has penalized construction company Julius Berger Nigeria Plc after a tragic accident that led to the death of engineer Olalekan Oloruntoba at a worksite in Ijora.
The incident occurred on September 23, 2024, when Oloruntoba was hit by the contents of a container that fell from a forklift during unloading.
Eyewitnesses initially reported that the engineer was operating a crane when it collapsed. However, an investigation by the Lagos State Safety Commission revealed that Oloruntoba was injured by the container’s contents, which shifted unexpectedly, causing them to topple and strike him. He later died from these severe injuries.
After the news of Oloruntoba’s death surfaced in late September, showing him lifeless with injuries to his head, the Safety Commission began a full investigation.
While exact details of the penalties were not shared, the commission has required Julius Berger to follow specific safety measures to prevent similar incidents.
The Chief Executive Officer of the commission, Mr. Lanre Mojola, instructed the company to enhance safety protocols. Julius Berger must now provide additional safety training for workers and update its risk assessments, especially for loading and unloading procedures. A full review of their work practices is also mandated to ensure safer operations.
Friends and former colleagues have mourned Oloruntoba on social media, expressing sadness and respect for his dedication to his profession. Many described him as a “vibrant professional” and a “passionate civil engineer.”
This unfortunate incident is not the first of its kind in Lagos. Just last month, a worker died in another workplace incident after jumping into an iron melting pot at his factory. In that case, an investigation found the personal protective gear inadequate and ruled the event as a suicide.
