The Lagos State Government has closed down Purple Mall, a popular retail and lifestyle destination in Lekki, after the death of a 28-year-old man who reportedly fell from the mall’s multi-level car park on Thursday, June 26.
The deceased, named Obinna, was a frequent user of a gym located inside the mall.
According to his mum, Obinna was asked by security personnel to park on the 5th floor of the facility; however, he mistakenly drove through what appeared to be an exit route, reportedly due to the blurry signage.
Surveillance clips reviewed by the family and police officials showed Obinna driving at normal speed before his car suddenly plunged over the edge of the building.
The mother of the deceased blasted the mall’s management for claiming that her son refused valet parking services. A friend who was right behind Obinna at the time of the tragic incident confirmed that they were both ordered to park their cars themselves.
The family maintained that it took over 30 minutes for emergency services to bring Obinna out of the wrecked vehicle, but he was eventually confirmed dead upon arrival at the hospital.
The Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources has since sealed off the mall on Wednesday, July 2, pending the outcome of a proper investigation.
Reacting, the Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, revealed that technical experts have been called in to examine the structural soundness of the building and assess if negligence or safety violations led to Obinna’s shocking death.
“The state government is resolute in ensuring that all public and commercial spaces adhere strictly to safety standards. Any breaches will be dealt with in line with existing regulations,” he said.
The incident has triggered conversations about safety compliance across commercial properties in Lagos State. As regulatory agencies get ready to increase the enforcement of building codes and operational protocols, property developers and facility managers should expect more scrutiny henceforth.
Purple Mall is under the control of Purple Group, a Nigerian real estate and lifestyle brand that caters to middle-income consumers with its mixed-use retail and entertainment services.
