The Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic fire incident that claimed the lives of staff members at Afriland Towers which houses a UBA PLC branch in Lagos Island on Tuesday, September 16.
In a message to employees across the group, Elumelu who is chairman of UBA described the loss as “devastating,” noting that no words could capture the pain felt by families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.
“Yesterday was a stark reminder of what truly matters: our irreplaceable people, those who walk through our doors each day and share our mission,” he stated.
Elumelu disclosed that he was en route to New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) when news of the tragedy reached him, prompting him to cut short his trip and return to Lagos “as a mark of respect to our lost colleagues.”
The group chairman urged staff to support colleagues who are currently receiving care and assured that the company would provide full assistance to the bereaved families. He also announced that a memorial service will be held in the coming days to honour the departed.
Elumelu further expressed gratitude to emergency responders, first aid workers, and members of the public who showed courage and compassion during the incident.
To honour the victims, a one-minute silence will be observed today at 12 noon (WAT) across all Heirs Holdings companies.
“May this never happen again in our Group. May the souls of the departed rest in perfect peace,” Elumelu said.