Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has warned residents and business owners that the area around the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building, destroyed by fire on December 24, remains unsafe.
In a post on his X account on Friday, the governor confirmed that eight people died in the blaze, with five victims identified and three still unidentified. He added that 13 people have been rescued so far.
Speaking at the site, Sanwo-Olu extended his condolences to the families affected and urged compliance with safety directives. “No business or unauthorized activity should be taking place there. The area remains unsafe, and only first responders are permitted on the site,” he said.
He added that emergency teams continue to work carefully through the rubble, particularly at the rear of the building, to ensure no one remains trapped.
An information center has been established, staffed by officers from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), to provide assistance and updates to the public.
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Authorities noted that unsafe practices, including improper use of generators and shops built close to transformers, contributed to the scale of the disaster. Following a structural assessment, the GNI building is scheduled for demolition, and some surrounding structures will also be removed to prevent further risks.
“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 Lagosians that the government remains committed to overseeing the recovery process and supporting affected families, adding, “My heart is with every family affected. Safety must come first.”