Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has confirmed that eight people died in the fire that destroyed the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building on December 24.
The governor, who visited the site of the incident for the second time on Friday, expressed deep sympathy with the families of those who lost their lives and with residents and business owners affected by the tragedy, noting that no words could fully ease their pain.
According to Sanwo-Olu, five of the deceased victims have been identified, while three remain unidentified. He added that 13 people have been rescued so far as emergency teams continue recovery operations at the scene.
“As of today, we have confirmed eight deaths. Five victims have been identified, while three remain unidentified. Thirteen people have been rescued so far,” the governor said on X.
He disclosed that an information centre has been established at the site to assist members of the public seeking information or support.
Officers from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) and other responding agencies are on ground.
The governor warned that the entire area remains unsafe and stressed that no business or unauthorised activity should be taking place at the location. He said the market around the site has been shut, with access restricted strictly to first responders.
Sanwo-Olu noted that emergency responders are still carefully working through the rubble, particularly at the rear of the building, to ensure that no one remains trapped.
He described the incident as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by unsafe practices around markets, especially the improper use of generators and the construction of shops close to electrical transformers, which he said significantly increased the risks in the area.
“The entire area remains unsafe. No business or unauthorized activity should be taking place there. The market is closed, and only first responders are permitted on the site. Emergency teams continue to work carefully through the rubble, particularly at the rear of the building, to ensure no one remains trapped.
“This tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by certain practices around the market. The unsafe use of generators and the construction of shops around transformers significantly increased the risks in this area,” Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor announced that following a comprehensive structural assessment, the GNI building would be demolished using the safest possible methods. He added that some surrounding buildings would also have to be removed to safeguard lives.
“Following a full structural review, the GNI building will be demolished using the safest possible methods. Some surrounding buildings must also be removed. While these are difficult decisions, we must prioritize the safety of lives above all else,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He assured affected families that the Lagos State Government would continue to oversee the recovery process and take necessary steps to prevent a recurrence.
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