Sele Media Africa Reported by Amos Dachung
Afriland Towers: 20 Things You Didn’t Know About the Lagos Fire Incident
Here are key insights and clarifications about the tragic fire that hit Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island. These are drawn from Afriland Properties Plc and government reports aiming to dispel rumors and provide facts.
1. Origin of the Fire – The blaze started in the inverter room in the basement of Afriland Towers.
2. Cause of Deaths – Most victims died from smoke inhalation rather than burns or direct fire contact.
3. Time It Started – The fire reportedly began around 1:20 pm.
4. Response Time – Emergency services (fire and medical) were alerted quickly; the first responders arrived in about 20 minutes.
5. Evacuation Challenges – Thick smoke reduced visibility and blocked standard evacuation routes. Some people resorted to escaping through windows.
6. Alarm System Status – The building is fitted with alarms and safety systems; the alarms were triggered, though reports say not everyone heard them. Investigation is ongoing.
7. Safety Infrastructure – Afriland Towers has required safety features: smoke extractors, fire reels, extinguishers, and multiple emergency staircases.
8. Regular Fire Drills – Fire drills are regularly conducted; floor‑wardens are trained annually.
9. Building Closure – The building remains closed until full safety and structural audits are completed. Staff will not return until certified safe.
10. Number of Fatalities – Ten people lost their lives in the fire.
11. Victim Affiliations – Among those who died were staff from United Capital Plc and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
12. FIRS Staff Deaths Identified – The names of four FIRS staff confirmed dead: Mrs Ekelikhostse George, Mr David Sunday‑Jatto, Mrs Nkem Onyemelukwe, and Mr Peter Ifaranmaye.
13. Reaction from UBA – United Bank for Africa clarified that its head office was not affected, only one of its branches in the building.
14. Cause of Smoke Spread – Smoke travelled rapidly via air‑conditioning ducts and through building structures, compounding danger to occupants.
15. Number of Injured – Several persons were injured; multiple sources mention rescue operations and treatment of smoke inhalation victims.
16. Panic & Public Involvement – Bystanders and passersby used ladders, cushions, and other improvised means to assist people. Videos showed occupants jumping from windows.
17. Insurance Status – The property is insured, and Afriland confirms that insurance claims are underway.
18. Regulatory Compliance – Afriland Towers had valid safety certifications, and the safety systems complied with federal and state fire service requirements.
19. Support for Victims – Management is providing grief counseling, medical evaluation, and engagement with families of the deceased.
20. Lessons & Reviews – Afriland Properties is conducting comprehensive safety reviews, engaging independent experts and regulatory agencies to strengthen safety across all their managed facilities.
About The Author
Discover more from Sele Media Africa
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
