The Omatu Ikwuamaeze family has announced the painful loss of three of their children following the devastating fire outbreak at the Great Nigeria House (GNI) building in Balogun Market, Lagos Island, on December 24, 2025.
In a statement issued by the family of Sir Polycarp Omatu Ikwuamaeze, and Lady Justina Omatu Ikwuamaeze, the victims were identified as Stephen Onyeka Omatu (40), Casmir Nnabuike Omatu (39), and Collins Kenechukwu Omatu (37).
The three brothers reportedly lost their lives during the inferno that engulfed the multi-storey Great Nigeria Insurance House, a commercial building housing shops and offices within the densely populated Balogun Market axis. The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Christmas Eve, caused widespread destruction, trapping several occupants and resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. Emergency responders battled the blaze for hours and days amid challenges posed by congestion, flammable materials, and limited access routes.
The incident once again raised concerns over fire safety standards, electrical hazards, and emergency preparedness in Lagos’ major commercial centres, particularly on Lagos Island where similar incidents have occurred in the past.
Burial arrangements released by the family indicate that a Service of Songs and Requiem Mass will be held on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at 5:00pm at Jesus the Saviour Catholic Church, Ken Niemedim Street, Bucknor, Ejigbo, Lagos. This will be followed by a Burial Mass and Interment on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 10:00am at Nze Omatu Ikwuamaeze, Uzoakwa, Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The announcement was signed by Rev. Fr. William Omatu on behalf of the family.
As friends, relatives, and sympathisers continue to mourn the tragic loss, the Omatu family has called for prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed.