By Abiola Olawale
In a heartbreaking development, reports have emerged that the fire which engulfed Afriland Towers, has claimed six additional persons. This brings the total death toll to 10.
The blaze, which ravaged the six-storey commercial complex on Broad Street, Lagos Island, on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, has left families, colleagues, and business communities in a state of mourning.
The New Diplomat reports that the confirmed deaths were employees of United Capital, a financial and investment services firm occupying the 3rd and 4th floors of the tower.
The confirmation came hours after the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) announced that four of its staff members also died in the incident on Wednesday evening.
United Capital has also confirmed it lost six staff members to the tragedy.
The statement reads in part: “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.
“Our departed colleagues were an integral part of our company and family. Their painful loss leaves an immeasurable void. 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 and provide all the support we can to them during this most difficult time.
“We are making preparations for an appropriate memorial service to honour their lives and mark their passing with dignity and solemnity. 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.”
Recall also that officials of the Federal Fire Service, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, and other first responders rescued at least nine persons from the building. Five were revived, while four remained unconscious.
“A total of nine victims have been rescued. Five individuals have been resuscitated. Several others escaped unhurt, while efforts are ongoing to revive the remaining four,” the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service said in a statement on Tuesday.
