The Lagos State Government has shut down Purple Mall, a well-known retail and lifestyle hub in Lekki, following the death of a 28-year-old man who allegedly fell from the mall’s multi-level car park on Thursday, June 26.
The victim, identified as Obinna, was a frequent visitor to a gym within the mall.
According to his mother, security personnel had directed him to park on the fifth floor of the structure. However, he reportedly drove through what seemed to be an exit route, possibly due to poor signage. Surveillance footage reviewed by the family and law enforcement authorities allegedly shows Obinna driving at a moderate speed before his vehicle went over the edge of the parking facility.
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.