Afriland Properties Plc has addressed widespread misinformation surrounding the fire incident at Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos, which claimed 10 lives.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement on Saturday, the company explained that the fire originated in the inverter room located in the basement of the building at about 1:20 p.m.
It noted that detailed protocols were immediately activated, but thick black smoke and intense heat spread quickly throughout the facility.
Afriland confirmed that some occupants were forced to jump from windows to escape after smoke compromised visibility and evacuation routes. “The rapid spread of smoke created significant disorder and hindered effective communication,” the company said.
On the delay in emergency response, the firm noted that first responders arrived about 20 minutes after the fire started, contrary to claims that it took over three hours. The company expressed gratitude to emergency services and volunteers who helped bring the situation under control.
Responding to concerns about safety equipment, Afriland stated that the building was fitted with fire alarms, smoke extractors, sprinklers, and emergency exits in line with regulatory standards.
It said, “Afriland Towers is equipped with fire safety features, all in compliance with recommendations from both the Federal and State Fire Services. Valid certifications are available to verify this.”
“We also engage safety regulators regularly to certify that our buildings meet all requirements for occupancy, and there are valid certifications to verify this.”
The real estate firm confirmed that regular fire drills had been conducted, with each floor assigned fire wardens trained annually.
Addressing reports of UBA’s initial comments, Afriland said the bank’s early statement was aimed at preventing emergency services from being misdirected, as initial reports had wrongly suggested the UBA head office was affected.
The company expressed condolences over the 10 fatalities recorded, including staff of United Capital Plc and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, noting that most deaths were caused by smoke inhalation.
It pledged support to victims’ families, as well as grief counselling, medical evaluations, and flexible work arrangements for its employees.
On the future of the property, Afriland said Afriland Towers will remain closed until it undergoes full safety audits, reconstruction, and certification from relevant authorities.
It assured, “Staff welfare and confidence remain paramount, and alternative arrangements will continue until the building is certified completely safe.”
Afriland also confirmed that the building was insured, with reviews and regulatory investigations ongoing. The company pledged to strengthen safety protocols across all its managed facilities.
Afriland stated that the building will remain closed until it undergoes comprehensive safety audits, deep post-fire cleaning, reconstruction, and system upgrades. Re-occupation will only be permitted after clearance by regulatory authorities.
The company further emphasised that it is prioritizing the welfare of its employees. It said, “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.”
It added that the incident has offered invaluable lessons and pledged to work closely with regulators to strengthen disaster prevention measures across all its managed facilities.
