Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the fire outbreak that engulfed Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island, leading to loss of lives and destruction of valuable property.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Gboyega Akosile, on Thursday, the governor described the incident as a devastating blow to families, businesses, and institutions across the state.
“The fire incident at Afriland Towers in Broad Street is worrisome and represents a significant loss to Lagos State, the Federal Inland Revenue Service, United Capital PLC, and other affected organisations and individuals,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“It is with a heavy heart that I received news of this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, management, and staff of all who lost loved ones. I also wish the injured a speedy recovery.”
The inferno, which broke out on Tuesday, spread to parts of the nearby Central Plaza and Mandilas Market, claiming several lives and destroying goods worth millions of naira. Among the deceased were four staff of the Federal Inland Revenue Service and six from United Capital PLC.
Sanwo-Olu also extended condolences to traders whose goods were destroyed. He assured Lagosians that the state government would intensify efforts to prevent a recurrence.
“The government will continue to strengthen fire safety systems across the state and support initiatives that will reduce the likelihood of such disasters,” he pledged.
The governor commended first responders, including the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos State Ambulance Service, and the Federal Fire Service, for their swift intervention which helped limit casualties.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has also issued a condolence message, sympathising with the bereaved families, FIRS, United Capital, and United Bank for Africa. He praised the emergency responders and urged greater vigilance in preventing similar tragedies.
“The nation mourns with the affected families and organisations. We must increase caution, training, and alertness to avoid such disasters,” Tinubu said, while praying for the souls of the departed and quick recovery for the injured.
