Thursday, July 3, 2025 - The Lagos State Government has sealed off Purple Mall, a popular retail and lifestyle destination in Lekki, following 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, identified as Obinna, was a regular patron of
a gym located within the mall.
According to his mother, he had been directed by security
personnel to park on the fifth floor of the facility. However, he mistakenly
drove through what appeared to be an exit route, reportedly due to the lack of
clear signage. Surveillance footage reviewed by the family and law enforcement
officials is said to show Obinna driving at a moderate speed before his vehicle
plunged over the edge of the structure.
Obinna’s mother raised concerns over conflicting reports
provided by the mall’s management, who allegedly claimed that he refused valet
parking services. This account was contradicted by a friend who was following
behind him at the time of the incident and stated that both men were instructed
to park their cars themselves.
The family also disclosed that it took more than 30 minutes
for emergency services to extract Obinna from the wrecked vehicle. He was
confirmed dead upon arrival at the hospital.
The Lagos State Ministry of Environment and Water Resources
sealed off the mall on Wednesday, July 2, pending the outcome of a
comprehensive investigation.
Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo
Wahab, announced that a specialized technical team has been assembled to
examine the structural soundness of the facility and assess whether negligence
or safety violations played a role in the fatal fall.
“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,” Wahab stated.
The incident has sparked wider conversations about safety
compliance across commercial properties in Lagos. With regulatory agencies
expected to ramp up enforcement of building codes and operational protocols,
property developers and facility managers may face closer scrutiny going
forward.
Purple Mall is operated by Purple Group, a growing real
estate and lifestyle brand catering to middle-income consumers with its
mixed-use retail and entertainment offerings.
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