The death count from the devastating fire at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island, has risen to 10, following the confirmation that six employees of United Capital Plc lost their lives in the blaze.
According to reports, the six-story commercial building was engulfed in flames on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, after a fire ignited in the inverter room located in the basement around 1:30 p.m. Thick smoke rapidly filled the premises, causing widespread panic among occupants. Some individuals were seen attempting to escape through windows using ladders, while emergency teams worked tirelessly to control the fire.
United Capital Plc, a financial and investment services company occupying the third and fourth floors of Afriland Towers, confirmed the deaths of six staff members in a statement released on Thursday morning.
“With heavy hearts, the Management and Staff of United Capital Plc mourn the loss of six cherished colleagues following the tragic fire at Afriland Towers on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.
“These colleagues were vital members of our organization and family. Their untimely passing leaves a profound void. We extend our sincerest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones, and we continue to keep them in our thoughts and prayers, offering all possible support during this difficult period.
“Plans are underway to hold a dignified memorial service to honor their memories and celebrate their lives. We also express our gratitude to the emergency responders and all who assisted during the crisis.
“In this time of immense sorrow, we unite in solidarity, drawing strength from one another as we cope with this tragedy. May their souls find eternal peace.”
This announcement came shortly after the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) revealed that four of its senior employees also perished in the fire, bringing the confirmed death toll to 10.
Rescue operations conducted by the Federal Fire Service and Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service saved at least nine individuals. Of those rescued, five were successfully revived, while four remained unconscious.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service stated on Tuesday, “Nine victims have been rescued in total. Five have been resuscitated, several others escaped unharmed, and efforts continue to revive the remaining four.”
While official casualty figures have yet to be released by emergency agencies, eyewitnesses and insiders from the affected companies had earlier indicated that not all occupants survived the fire.
Attempts to obtain further updates from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, the National Emergency Management Agency, and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
