The Lagos State Safety Commission has warned clubs and lounges against overcrowding.
The commission also noted it had commenced inspections to ensure compliance, having observed “a concerning trend of overcrowding in several clubs and lounges across the city in recent days.”
In a statement on Wednesday, the Director General of the Safety Commission, Lanre Mojola, expressed concern over trend of overcrowding in several clubs and lounges across the city in recent days.
Mojola, while noting that the commission wholeheartedly support the vibrant nightlife and the economic benefits it brings, said “we must emphasise the paramount importance of adhering to authorised occupancy limits as approved by the commission.”
He stressed that nightclubs should not allow overcrowding that poses significant safety risks, including the potential for fire hazards, smoking in public spaces, compromised emergency exits, and increased likelihood of accidents.
He said these risks not only endangered the lives of patrons but also the staff and that of the general public, and strongly urging all owners and operators of hospitality venues in the state “to strictly comply with the safety measures and occupancy limits set forth by the Lagos State Safety Commission.”
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He emphasized that these regulations were in place to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone, disclosing that the commission had commenced rigorous inspections to ensure compliance.
The commission boss warned that any establishment found to be in violation of these safety regulations would face immediate closure and further legal actions as deemed necessary.
“We strongly urge all owners and operators of hospitality venues to strictly comply with the safety measures and occupancy limits set forth by the Lagos State Safety Commission. These regulations are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone.
“The commission has commenced rigorous inspections to ensure compliance, and any establishment found to be in violation of these safety regulations will face immediate closure and further legal actions as deemed necessary,” the statement added.
Mojola, while urging the citizens to please contact the Commission on 07000SAFETY, however, expressed the commission’s appreciation for stakeholders’ cooperation in maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all, adding: “Let us work together to keep Lagos safe and thriving.”
