The management of Afriland Properties Plc, Lagos has officially opened up on what caused the recent fire outbreak at the Afriland Towers, one of its properties located on Broad Street, Lagos Island.
In a special statement over the weekend, Chukwunonso Okafor, the Head, Brand, Marketing and Corporate Communications submitted that the casualties recorded were as a result of what he called ‘smoke inhalation’.
Okafor also insisted that Afriland Towers is equipped with fire safety features, including smoke extractors, fire reels, and extinguishers, all in compliance with recommendations from both the Federal and State Fire Services.
Afriland Properties equally said that the fire originated in the inverter room located in the basement of Afriland Towers adding that 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.
“The building is equipped with fire alarms and safety systems. The alarms were triggered and though some occupants indicated they heard them some others didn’t. This is being investigated. However, alarms are installed on all floors.
Okafor then clarified that the fire started around 1:20pm. The on-site fire champions activated the fire protocol while the first responders came in about 20 minutes later. We remain grateful for their efforts, and for the support of well-meaning Nigerians who helped bring the situation under control.
“Afriland Towers has documented safety procedures, regular drills, and standard fire evacuation plans. However, the rapid spread of thick smoke made evacuation extremely difficult.
“The building is designed with two dedicated emergency staircases providing access from all floors, as well as multiple exit points on the ground floor. However, the rapid spread of smoke severely limited the use of these escape routes.
While speaking about the initial statement by the United Bank For Africa, Okafor said, “We believe that the initial statement was intended to prevent emergency services from being misdirected, as early reports mistakenly suggested that the UBA head office was on fire. We also acknowledge their subsequent clarifications and their expressions of sympathy”.
On the issue of fatalities, Okafor said, “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 organizations to ensure that the bereaved are supported with compassion and practical assistance.
While speaking about what the future holds for the building, Okafor submitted “The building will undergo a full structural, safety, and regulatory review before anyone is asked to return. Staff welfare and confidence remain paramount, and alternative arrangements will continue until the building is certified completely safe.
“We are prioritising the well-being of all staff. This includes precautionary medical evaluations, structured assistance during this grieving period, and counselling support. In addition, management is reviewing long-term support mechanisms to ensure our people are cared for and valued.
“We are undertaking a comprehensive safety review of Afriland Towers and all our managed facilities. This includes working with independent fire safety experts, regulatory agencies, and insurers to ensure elevated safety protocol even beyond regulatory requirements.
“The building will remain closed until it undergoes thorough safety audits, deep post-fire cleaning, and any necessary reconstruction or system upgrades. Additional measures will also be implemented to restore the environment and ensure it is fully habitable. Re-occupation will only take place once the building has been certified safe by the relevant authorities.
“We have put in place grief counselling, flexible work arrangements, and dedicated support channels for staff. This is a time of mourning and healing, and staff welfare remains our highest priority.”
