Ibadan, Oyo State – June 2, 2025
Panic gripped the commercial heart of Ibadan on Monday following a tragic incident at the iconic Cocoa House, where an unidentified man reportedly fell from one of the upper floors of the 26-storey skyscraper.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as harrowing. One observer, visibly shaken, recounted the horrifying moment: “At first, I thought it was a large bird falling. It was only when the person landed that I realized it was a human being. I had my phone, but I couldn’t even record, my hands were shaking.”
Another witness noted that the man appeared to strike the roof near the building’s security post before hitting the ground. The chaotic scene left many screaming and fleeing in panic.
In response, Odu’a Investment Company Limited, the managers of Cocoa House, issued an official media statement confirming the incident. According to the company, the fall occurred earlier in the day and involved a single individual.
“We regret to report an unfortunate incident of a fall that occurred earlier today at Cocoa House, Ibadan, involving an individual,” the statement read.
Victor Ayetoro, Head of Branding and Communication at Odu’a Investment Company, stated that the emergency response team acted promptly, and the affected person was swiftly taken to the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, for urgent medical attention.
“We are deeply concerned by this development and are fully cooperating with the relevant authorities to support ongoing investigation,” the company added, assuring that further updates would be provided as more information becomes available.
As of press time, the identity of the victim remains unknown, and the exact circumstances leading to the fall have not been officially established. Authorities are expected to release more details as investigations continue.
Constructed in 1965, Cocoa House stands as West Africa’s first skyscraper and remains a significant landmark symbolizing regional pride and economic ambition. Monday’s incident has cast a somber mood over the historic structure, prompting calls for a thorough safety review and improved surveillance within and around the building.
