At least 10 people have been confirmed dead following the fire that engulfed Afriland Towers, a six-storey commercial building on Broad Street, Lagos Island.
The fire, which reportedly started in the inverter room around 1:30 pm on Tuesday, spread quickly, trapping occupants as thick smoke filled several floors.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, rescuing many, but unfortunately not everyone made it out alive.
Among the victims were six employees of United Capital Plc, an investment and financial services firm that occupied the 3rd and 4th floors of the building.
In a statement to The Punch, the company expressed deep sorrow.
“It is with profound grief that the Management and Staff of United Capital Plc announce the passing of six of our dear colleagues, following the tragic fire at Afriland Towers on Tuesday, September 16, 2025,” the firm said.
The company further described the deceased staff members as “an integral part of our company and family.”
It added that their passing leaves “an immeasurable void.”
United Capital promised continued support for the bereaved families, saying, “We extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones, and we continue to hold them in our thoughts and prayers.”
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) earlier announced that four of its staff members were among those who died in the incident.
This tragic confirmation raised the death toll to 10.
Meanwhile, United Capital revealed plans for a memorial service to honor the victims.
“We are making preparations for an appropriate memorial service to honour their lives and mark their passing with dignity and solemnity,” the statement continued.
Although investigations are still ongoing, officials believe the fire was caused by an inverter explosion in the basement of the tower.
The flames spread rapidly, creating panic among workers and residents nearby.
Eyewitnesses confirmed that emergency teams battled for hours to contain the blaze.
Several occupants were rescued, but some tragically could not be saved.
“We thank the emergency services and all those who responded for their valiant assistance at the time of the incident. In this moment of untold grief, we stand together in solidarity, drawing strength from one another as we navigate this period. May the souls of the departed rest in peace,” the statement concluded.
