Lagos: Business activities disrupted as fire engulfs six-storey tower

By Tolu Folorunsho & Pacheco Ayomide

LAGOS—Business activities were, yesterday, thrown into disarray on Broad Street, Lagos Island, after fire broke out at Afriland Tower, a six-storey commercial building, forcing workers, visitors, and passers-by to scamper for safety. The incident, which occurred about 1:38 p.m., saw thick smoke billowing into the sky, causing panic among traders and commuters.

Eyewitnesses said terrified occupants dashed out of the building as the fire spread from the basement, while others were trapped until firefighters arrived. Nine persons were said to have been chocked by smoke.

According to the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, fire crews from Ebute Elefun and Sari Iganmu stations swiftly mobilised to the scene, helping to avert what could have been a major disaster. Deputy Controller General of the agency, Ogabi Olajide, confirmed that the fire originated from the inverter room in the basement before smoke quickly spread to other floors, engulfing the entire structure.

Olajide said: “A total of nine casualties have been rescued. Five individuals have been resuscitated. Several others escaped unhurt, while efforts are ongoing to revive the remaining four individuals.

“Evacuation of occupants is in progress, while firefighting operations have been concluded, dousing the earlier panic before the arrival of the first responders. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the outbreak and the extent of damage.”

Meanwhile, traffic was paralysed along adjoining streets as emergency vehicles cordoned off the area, while anxious traders and onlookers gathered around the scene.

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