Afriland Publishes Detailed FAQs On Towers Fire Incident

In the wake of the devastating fire that swept through Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island, Afriland Properties Plc has released a detailed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document addressing public concerns about the incident. The fire, which broke out earlier in the week, claimed 10 lives, including staff members of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and United Capital Plc, and left scores of others injured and traumatised.

The tragedy has sparked nationwide conversations about building safety, emergency response systems, and the readiness of facilities to protect occupants in crisis situations.

A Fire That Shook Lagos Island

According to Afriland’s statement, the fire started around 1:20 pm in the basement inverter room of the high-rise building. Witnesses say thick, black smoke quickly filled the building, leaving occupants scrambling for safety. Some employees were forced to smash windows and leap to the ground to escape the choking fumes, scenes that have since dominated social media timelines and news headlines.

“Safety protocols were activated immediately,” Afriland explained. “But the intense heat and smoke spread rapidly, compromising visibility and restricting access to designated evacuation routes.”

Why Did Occupants Jump From Windows?

One of the most pressing questions from the public was why people had to risk their lives by jumping out of the building. Afriland acknowledged that the smoke spread so quickly that visibility inside the stairwells and corridors became nearly zero, leaving panic-stricken workers with little choice.

“The intensity of the incident created significant disorder and hindered effective communication,” the company said, adding that the evacuation challenge was not due to a lack of exits but the overwhelming presence of smoke.

Fire Alarms, Safety Systems, and Emergency Response

Afriland confirmed that the building is fitted with fire alarms, smoke extractors, and fire safety systems in compliance with Federal and State Fire Service standards. While alarms were triggered, some occupants reported they did not hear them, an issue the company says is under investigation.

The firm also addressed criticism about the response time, clarifying that fire service teams arrived roughly 20 minutes after the on-site fire champions activated the emergency protocols.

Casualties and Support For Victims’ Families

The company confirmed that 10 people lost their lives, mostly due to smoke inhalation. In separate condolence messages, FIRS and United Capital Plc mourned their employees, describing the incident as “deeply tragic.”

Afriland has pledged comprehensive support for the bereaved families, including practical assistance and long-term welfare provisions. Staff who survived the incident are also receiving medical evaluations, counselling, and flexible work arrangements during this grieving period.

Safety Reviews and Next Steps

Afriland Properties says the Towers will remain closed until a full structural, electrical, and fire safety audit is completed. Independent experts and regulators are being engaged to conduct a comprehensive review, with the goal of exceeding even the standard safety requirements.

“This is not just about reopening a building,” the company stated. “It’s about restoring confidence, protecting lives, and setting a new benchmark for safety in all our facilities.”

The company says fire drills, annual safety certifications, and dedicated floor wardens have always been part of Afriland Towers’ culture, but the lessons learned from this tragedy will strengthen future preparedness.

Lessons For Lagos and Beyond

This incident has become more than just a corporate crisis for Afriland; it is a wake-up call for Lagos’ commercial real estate sector. Many have drawn parallels to previous high-rise fire disasters, calling for stricter enforcement of building codes, faster emergency response times, and better public education on fire evacuation procedures.

Afriland Properties says it is committed to transparency and will publish the findings of its safety review once complete. “We owe it to our staff, partners, and the public to make sure this never happens again,” the statement read.

For now, the skyscraper that once symbolized corporate confidence stands silent, its windows blackened, its offices empty, as the city waits for answers and a plan to ensure that the lives lost will not be in vain.