Society Column Editor
By Gite Igiehon
Panic gripped the heart of Ibadan’s business district on Monday morning as a yet-to-be-identified man reportedly fell from one of the upper floors of the iconic 26-storey Cocoa House building, the tallest structure in West Africa. The incident sent shockwaves through the community, drawing a crowd of stunned onlookers and sparking immediate emergency response efforts.
Cocoa House, a landmark of economic history in Nigeria and managed by Odu’a Investment Company Limited, became the scene of a disturbing spectacle when the man plummeted to the ground in the early hours of the day.
Eyewitness Accounts Paint Gruesome Picture
An eyewitness, who requested anonymity, recounted the horrifying moment to sources Tuesday. “At first, I thought it was a large bird falling from the sky,” the source said. “It was only when the person landed that I realized it was a human being. I had my phone with me, but I couldn’t even record anything because I was completely shocked.”
Another observer described how the man’s fall was partially broken by a roof structure near the building’s security post before he finally hit the ground. “It was a terrifying sight. People around were screaming. Some ran away. It was unlike anything I’ve seen before,” the witness recalled.
Circumstances Still Unclear
As of the time of this report, the exact cause and circumstances leading to the man’s fall remain unclear. Authorities have not disclosed whether the fall was accidental, intentional, or a result of foul play. The victim’s identity also remains unknown.
Cocoa House Management Responds
In a statement released on Tuesday, Odu’a Investment Company Limited, the managers of Cocoa House, confirmed the incident and assured the public of ongoing efforts to address the situation.
Victor Ayetoro, Head of Branding and Communication for the company, said, “The individual involved was swiftly attended to by the emergency response team and taken to the University College Hospital, Ibadan, for urgent medical attention. We express our deepest concern regarding this development and are working closely with the authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.”
Public Concern and Investigation
The incident has raised serious safety and security concerns surrounding the iconic building, which houses numerous business offices and sees daily foot traffic from hundreds of visitors and employees. There are growing calls for improved safety protocols and increased surveillance across the premises.
While no official report has been released by law enforcement as of press time, investigations are said to be underway. Medical personnel at UCH have not yet provided an update on the man’s condition.
Cocoa House: A National Symbol
Built in 1965 and completed in 1968, Cocoa House stands as a monument to Nigeria’s post-independence ambition and economic heritage, particularly symbolizing the cocoa wealth of the Western Region. This tragic incident marks one of the most disturbing events in the building’s history and has prompted renewed discussion about facility management and mental health awareness.
