The Federal Fire Service has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the devastating fire that erupted on September 16 at Afriland Tower, Broad Street, Lagos Island, which claimed lives and destroyed offices belonging to the United Bank for Africa and the Federal Inland Revenue Service.
Controller General of the Service, Samuel Adeyemi Olumode, disclosed in a statement through the Service’s Public Relations Officer, DCF Paul Abraham, that preliminary findings indicated the fire may have originated from the building’s inverter room.
He ordered the immediate deployment of a specialized team to investigate the incident thoroughly, examining both direct and indirect causes, including the condition of the building’s fire safety systems, maintenance culture, and adherence to safety regulations.
“The findings of this investigation will be made public, and every recommendation will be implemented without delay,” Adeyemi assured.
In addition to the probe, the FFS chief announced the formation of a nationwide Task Force on Fire Safety Compliance.
The unit is tasked with auditing public and private buildings, enforcing safety standards, sanctioning defaulters, training facility managers, and enhancing collaborations with regulatory bodies.
Adeyemi emphasized the need for Nigeria to move from reactive firefighting to preventive enforcement, highlighting that “installing fire equipment is not enough without regular maintenance and staff training.”
“We must move into a regime of accountability, audits, sanctions, and compliance if tragedies like this are to be avoided,” he added.
Offering condolences to UBA Chairman Tony Elumelu, FIRS Chairman Dr. Zacch Adelabu Adedeji, their staff, and the families of the victims, Adeyemi prayed for the repose of the departed and comfort for their loved ones.
The Service also called on building owners, banks, corporate organizations, and government agencies to urgently assess their fire safety preparedness.
Key measures include securing inverter and generator rooms, keeping exits clear, ensuring alarms are functional, and training staff in emergency response.
Adeyemi further commended the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for supporting the enactment of the Federal Fire and Rescue Act, which he said would foster “a new culture of fire prevention and public accountability” across Nigeria.
