By Omodele Adigun
Afriland Properties Plc has cleared the air on the tragic fire incident at Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos, confirming that ten people died but insisting the building was equipped with fire alarms, emergency exits, and other safety facilities.
This was contained in a statement signed by Mr Chukwunonso Okafor, Head of Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications, Afriland Properties Plc. The statement reads partly:
“The fire originated in the inverter room located in the basement of Afriland Towers. Safety protocols were activated immediately. However, the thick black smoke and intense heat generated quickly filled the basement and spread rapidly throughout the building.
The smoke spread rapidly throughout the building, severely compromising visibility and restricting access to designated evacuation routes. Under these challenging conditions, some occupants resorted to exiting through the windows in their efforts to reach safety. The intensity of the incident created significant disorder and hindered effective communication.
Sadly, we recorded 10 fatalities, including members of United Capital Plc and the Federal Inland Revenue Service. We extend our deepest condolences to their families and are working closely with the affected organisations to ensure that the bereaved are supported with compassion and practical assistance.
Based on available information, the primary cause of casualties was smoke inhalation.”
The company stressed that Afriland Towers was designed with two dedicated emergency staircases, multiple exits, smoke extractors, sprinklers, and extinguishers in compliance with federal and state safety certifications.
It explained that the rapid spread of thick smoke limited the use of some escape routes, while fire drills had been regularly conducted and wardens trained on each floor under fire service supervision.
On reports of delayed response, Afriland clarified that the fire started at 1:20 p.m. and not 10:00 a.m., and that first responders arrived within 20 minutes of activation by its safety officers.
Mr Okafor said the building would remain closed until it passes comprehensive structural, safety and regulatory reviews, adding that grief counselling, alternative work arrangements, and insurance cover are being provided for affected staff and families.
He noted that Afriland was also reviewing all its managed facilities across Nigeria to further strengthen safety standards beyond statutory requirements.
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