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, said while the agency supports the vibrant nightlife in Lagos and the economic benefits it brings, “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.
These risks, he said, not only endanger the lives of the customers but also the staff and the general public.
“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.
