Lagos Materials Testing Laboratory Agency has decried frequent attacks on its personnel, saying some residents’ alarming rise of sharp practices in the construction sector against the agency’s materials testing protocols in the state is unbecoming.
The general manager Lagos State Materials Testing Laboratory Agency Engr. Olayinka Abdul, who disclosed this yesterday at a press conference held in Lagos, lamented that its personnel were being subjected to emotional and physical abuse.
Abdul said the agency’s mandate to ensure that the materials used in numerous projects in the state meet the highest standards of quality and safety would be jealously guarded under her watch. She said the unique responsibility cannot be compromised as it concerns safety to lives and property.
She said, “Regrettably, however, we have observed an increase in sharp practices, where specific individuals and groups have attempted to circumvent the established protocols of materials testing.
“These actions not only threaten the integrity of construction projects but also endanger the lives of citizens who rely on safe and durable infrastructure.
“Some of the most concerning practices we have encountered include Intimidation and pressurising: There have been instances where individuals have sought to manipulate the testing process through intimidation and pressuring our personnel to overlook critical tests or to falsify results. This is not only illegal but also an attack on the ethics of our profession.
“Tampering with Samples: We have encountered cases where samples of construction materials have been tampered with before testing. This deceitful practice undermines our efforts to ensure the materials are safe and suitable.
“Misinformation and Misrepresentation: Some individuals, developers and contractors have misrepresented the quality and sources of their materials, leading us to believe that they meet safety standards.
“Abuse of our personnel: most of our personnel are being emotionally abused, even sometimes physically abused while on duty. This action should stop. We represent the Lagos State T.H. E.M. E.S plus Agenda to ensure the safety of lives in averting building collapse. This, we should not be maltreated for doing this.’’
On regulatory compliance, Abdul said the Lagos State government has established regulatory standards and regulations to guide construction practices. The agency is committed to ensuring that these lines are strictly enforced to ensure the safety of residents.