Polaris Bank has refuted viral reports alleging that over 34 people lost their lives in Thursday’s fire incident at its Broad Street branch on Lagos Island, insisting that the claims are false and misleading.
The Punch reported that in a statement released by its management, the bank explained that the fire started from a customer’s vehicle parked on the third floor of the building’s car park and was quickly brought under control through swift emergency response efforts.
According to the bank, safety protocols were immediately activated, while firefighters responded promptly and contained the blaze.
“A fire incident occurred today at the car park of our Broad Street Branch, Lagos, originating from a customer’s vehicle parked on the 3rd-floor car park.
“The fire was swiftly contained following the activation of our emergency response procedures and the prompt intervention of firefighters.
“We confirm that there were no casualties or fatalities. Reports claiming that over 34 persons were feared dead are false and misleading. Investigations into the incident are ongoing,” the statement read.
In a follow-up clarification, the bank reaffirmed that no lives were lost and commended the emergency teams for their quick intervention.
“Following the fire incident at the Car Park of our Broad Street Branch, Lagos, we are pleased to confirm that the situation was swiftly contained and, thankfully, there were no casualties or fatalities.
“We appreciate the prompt response of emergency services.
“We urge the public to rely only on credible news platforms and our official channels for accurate information and disregard false reports circulating online,” the bank added.
Meanwhile, The Punch had earlier reported that operatives of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service extinguished the fire, which broke out at about 11:33 a.m. on the third floor of the 17-storey Polaris Bank building at 61/65 Broad Street, Lagos Island.
Controller General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, confirmed that the incident involved a stationary saloon car parked within the third-floor parking area.
She noted that firefighters from the Ebute Elefun and Sari Iganmu stations were promptly deployed after the distress call was received.
“The only damage recorded was to the affected vehicle and its immediate surroundings. No casualties or injuries were reported,” Adeseye said.
Authorities say the exact cause of the fire is still under investigation.
