Lagos Upgrades Odan Doctors’ Residence Three Years After Vwaere Diaso Death
Lagos State Enhances Safety Measures at Odan House Officers’ Residence
LAGOS, Nigeria — The Lagos State government has announced significant safety and infrastructure upgrades at the Odan House Officers’ Residence, following the tragic death of Dr. Vwaere Diaso in a lift accident three years ago.
In a statement on his official X account, Prof. Akin Abayomi, the state’s Commissioner for Health, emphasized the administration’s commitment to preventing similar incidents in the future. He detailed a range of corrective actions taken since Dr. Diaso’s death, including the decommissioning of the faulty elevator and a comprehensive renovation of the facility, which includes the installation of new elevators.
“We deeply value the lives of our medical professionals and every Lagosian,” Abayomi stated.
To manage the renovation, the government engaged construction firm Julius Berger for the extensive refurbishment of the ten-story building, while Kresta Laurel was contracted to oversee the elevator installations. According to Abayomi, the installation phase is complete.
The Commissioner also mentioned the state has strengthened management strategies by assigning a senior official from the Lagos State Health Service Commission to supervise the facility until a permanent manager is appointed. Furthermore, operational standards have been fortified in alignment with guidelines from the Lagos State Safety Commission concerning elevator operations.
The renovations are being conducted in phases to accommodate the ongoing residence of doctors from the Lagos Island General Hospital, Lagos Island Maternity Hospital, and Massey Street Children’s Hospital.
“The comprehensive refurbishment of the House Officers’ Residence is progressing steadily and with clear purpose,” Abayomi noted. The renovation is progressing from the top floors downward, allowing doctors to return to their apartments as each floor is completed.
Following a recent project inspection, Abayomi expressed satisfaction with the quality of the work and highlighted the positive feedback from residents who have moved into the completed upper floors.
While the new elevators have been installed, they will not be operational until the entirety of the refurbishment is finalized. “This will protect these new assets and ensure the highest level of safety for all residents,” he said.
Dr. Vwaere Diaso died in August 2023 after a malfunctioning elevator at the House Officers’ Residence plummeted while she was inside, triggering public outcry and renewed scrutiny regarding safety protocols in public health facilities across the state.
