Early Monday morning, an unidentified man fell from the top floors of the iconic 26-storey Cocoa House in Ibadan, causing shock. Passersby and workers in the busy commercial area witnessed the incident, feeling distressed and stunned by the sudden event.
Eyewitnesses described seeing the horrifying moment when the man plummeted from the towering structure. Some initially mistook him for a bird mid-flight due to the height and speed of his fall. “When his body hit the ground, I realized it was a person—I was too stunned to even reach for my phone,” one witness recounted. Another person recalled how the victim struck a roof near the security post before landing, calling it a sight that will haunt them for years.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and rushed the injured man to the University College Hospital for urgent medical care. Hospital officials have not yet disclosed the extent of his injuries or his current condition, leaving many anxious for updates.
Odu’a Investment Company Limited, which manages Cocoa House, officially acknowledged the incident and expressed concern.
Victor Ayetoro, the Head of Branding and Communication, assured the public about their cooperation with authorities as investigations proceed.
Consequently, the company is committed to transparency and assisting ongoing inquiries thoroughly.
Additionally, Cocoa House remains one of Nigeria’s tallest and most historic structures, symbolizing economic strength and cultural heritage. Its significance for Ibadan and Nigeria underscores the importance of the incident and the need for careful investigation.
This incident has sparked renewed discussions about safety measures and security protocols in high-rise structures.
Police have not yet determined whether the fall was accidental or deliberate, leaving many questions unanswered. Investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses to piece together what happened. The community awaits further developments as officials work to clarify the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.
Local residents and business owners expressed their grief over the incident, with many calling for improved safety measures to prevent future tragedies. Some questioned whether better mental health support or structural safeguards could have made a difference.
For now, the focus remains on the victim’s recovery and uncovering the truth behind his fall. As the investigation progresses, authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and allow due process to take its course. The case serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the need for vigilance in public spaces.
Cocoa House, which was once a symbol of progress, now serves as the backdrop to a devastating tragedy.
This heartbreaking event has left the entire city in mourning, casting a somber shadow over the community.. The coming days will reveal more details, but for now, the community holds its breath, hoping for answers and healing.