Tinubu Condoles Families, FIRS, UBA Over Afriland Towers Fire Tragedy

Tinubu Condoles Families, FIRS, UBA Over Afriland Towers Fire Tragedy

By Abiola Adigun
Albarka 89.9 FM

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended heartfelt condolences to the families of victims and institutions affected by Tuesday’s fire outbreak at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island, which claimed lives and left several others injured.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President commiserated with the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, United Capital, and Afriland Properties Limited, tenants of the high-rise office complex, over the tragic incident.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the departed, the injured, and the management and staff of the organizations affected by this unfortunate disaster,” President Tinubu said.
The fire, which broke out on September 16, gutted several floors of the commercial tower before emergency responders brought it under control. Lagos State officials confirmed that multiple people lost their lives, while survivors are receiving medical attention in nearby hospitals.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who visited the scene, described the incident as “a painful loss for Lagos State” and assured that the government would launch a full investigation.
“We will work with safety regulators to determine the cause of this fire and ensure that measures are strengthened to protect lives and property in our high-rise buildings,” the governor said.
Tinubu, in his message, commended the Federal Fire Service, first aiders, medical personnel, and members of the public whose swift intervention aided evacuation and minimized casualties. He also emphasized the need for improved safety training and vigilance in commercial facilities.
“This tragedy underscores the importance of heightened caution, regular training, and emergency preparedness to prevent such occurrences in the future,” the President noted.
The FIRS, one of the affected institutions, said the agency lost some staff in the tragedy.
“It is a dark day for us at FIRS. We mourn the colleagues we lost and are working with the families to provide every necessary support,” a senior FIRS official said.
Similarly, UBA expressed shock over the incident, pledging support for the victims’ families.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives and the trauma caused by this unfortunate event. Our prayers are with the families affected, and we will stand by them in this difficult time,” UBA Group Head of Communications, Ramon Nasir, said.
The President prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and a quick recovery for the injured.