President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the lives lost in the tragic fire that engulfed Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos Island, leaving seven people confirmed dead, including four employees of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
The disaster, which broke out on Tuesday, also affected staff of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Afriland Properties Limited, sparking widespread grief across the financial district. Victims who were rushed to various hospitals in Lagos succumbed to injuries despite frantic medical efforts.
In a condolence statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu extended his sympathies to the bereaved families and those injured.
“President Tinubu extends his condolences to the management and staff of Afriland Properties Limited, the FIRS, UBA, and particularly those who lost loved ones in the inferno, and the injured who are currently receiving medical attention,” the statement read in part.
The President also lauded the quick action of emergency teams, including the Federal Fire Service, medical personnel, and members of the public who participated in the evacuation process. He advised stricter safety training and awareness to prevent similar tragedies in future.
Medical professionals across Lagos continue battling to stabilize other victims of the fire. The incident was among two major fire outbreaks that disrupted business activities in Lagos Island earlier this week, destroying valuable property.