Lagos NBA Branch Launches Independent Probe Into AfriLand Towers Fire

The Lagos Branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has announced the launch of an independent panel of inquiry into the fire that ravaged AfriLand Towers on Broad Street, Lagos, on September 16. The blaze claimed multiple lives, including that of prominent lawyer and NBA member Mrs. Ndidi Osaemedike-Okeke.

Branch Chairman Uchenna Ogunedo-Akingbade said the panel was set up to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, review compliance with safety standards, and recommend measures to prevent similar tragedies. “This is part of our duty to uphold the rule of law and protect the lives and rights of Lagosians,” Ogunedo-Akingbade stated.

The six-member committee is chaired by Nonso Azih, with Vivian Okoh-Olutunfese as alternate chair and Dan Whisky as secretary. Other members include Theophilus Alao, Maduka Onwukeme, and Fola Akintunde. The branch expressed hope that the findings would enhance public safety and bring accountability to those responsible.

The fire, which began in the inverter room of the building’s basement around 1:20 p.m., spread rapidly through the air-conditioning ducts, filling corridors with thick smoke. Ten people were confirmed dead, with most fatalities attributed to smoke inhalation rather than direct burns.

Read also: AfriLand Publishes FAQs on Fire Incident

Afriland Properties, the building’s managers, said emergency responders arrived within 20 minutes of the outbreak but admitted that smoke made evacuation extremely difficult. The company pledged to work with regulators, insurers, and fire safety experts to strengthen emergency protocols across its properties.

The Lagos State Government has also opened a separate investigation into the fire, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu directing that safety procedures in high-rise buildings across the state be reviewed.

The NBA’s independent panel is expected to complement the state’s inquiry by examining legal compliance, identifying lapses in safety enforcement, and pushing for reforms that could set a precedent for building management practices nationwide.