Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has confirmed that eight people lost their lives in the fire that destroyed the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building, which occurred on December 24.
The governor disclosed this on Wednesday after visiting the site of the incident, expressing deep sympathy for the families of the victims and for residents and business owners affected by the tragedy. According to him, five of the deceased have been identified, while three remain unidentified. He also said that 13 people have been rescued so far.
Sanwo-Olu stated that an information centre has been set up at the scene to support affected persons. Officers from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), and other response agencies are on ground to provide assistance and information.
He warned that the area remains unsafe, stressing that no business or unauthorised activities should take place at the site. The market has been closed, and access is restricted to emergency responders only. Rescue teams, he added, are still carefully combing through the rubble, particularly at the rear of the building, to ensure that no one is trapped.
The governor noted that the incident highlighted the dangers associated with unsafe practices around the market, including the improper use of generators and the construction of shops close to transformers, which significantly heightened the risk.
Sanwo-Olu further revealed that following a comprehensive structural assessment, the GNI building would be demolished using the safest possible methods. He added that some surrounding structures would also have to be removed in the interest of public safety.
While describing the decisions as difficult, the governor emphasised that the protection of lives must take precedence. He assured affected families that the state government would oversee the recovery process and ensure that necessary steps are taken in their interest.