At least six additional fatalities have now been confirmed in connection with the fire outbreak at Afriland Towers, a six-storey commercial complex located on Broad Street, Lagos Island, Lagos State.
The deceased were employees of United Capital Plc, an investment and financial services company occupying the third and fourth floors of the building.
This confirmation follows an earlier announcement by the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), which disclosed that four of its staff members also perished in the incident on Wednesday evening.
According to reports, the fire is believed to have originated in the inverter room situated in the basement at approximately 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The outbreak generated thick plumes of smoke, prompting widespread panic as some occupants attempted desperate escapes through windows while emergency personnel battled to contain the flames.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, in conjunction with the Federal Fire Service and other first responders, confirmed the rescue of at least nine individuals. Five were successfully resuscitated, while four remained unconscious at the time of the report.
On Thursday morning, United Capital Plc issued an official statement confirming the death of six employees, thereby raising the total number of confirmed fatalities from the Afriland Towers fire to ten.
“It is with profound grief that the Management and Staff of United Capital Plc announce the passing of six of our colleagues following the tragic fire at Afriland Towers on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. Their painful loss leaves an immeasurable void. We extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones and will continue to provide support during this most difficult period. Preparations are underway for a memorial service to honor their lives with dignity and solemnity. We are also grateful to the emergency services and other responders for their courageous efforts,” the company stated.
Emergency officials had earlier indicated that the incident was likely triggered by an inverter explosion, though an official casualty report has yet to be issued by the relevant authorities. Attempts to obtain further confirmation from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) were unsuccessful as of press time.#newsafro_
