The Lagos State Judiciary has taken steps to uncover the circumstances surrounding the tragic fire incident at Afriland Tower on Broad Street, which claimed the lives of 10 people last month. A coroner has now been officially assigned to conduct an inquest into the deaths.
The move follows a formal petition by human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), who urged the Chief Coroner of Lagos State to investigate the incident in accordance with Section 15 of the Lagos State Coroner’s Law, 2007, which mandates an inquest into deaths occurring under violent, unnatural, or suspicious circumstances.
The September 16, 2025, tragedy reportedly began when thick smoke emanated from the building’s inverter room, trapping occupants inside. Victims included four officials of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) and six employees of United Capital, who were unable to escape as the fire spread through the six-storey structure.
Videos circulated on social media showed scenes of chaos as some individuals attempted to jump from the building while others were rescued by bystanders using ladders.
In the petition titled “Request for Inquest Into the Death of Ten (10) Persons at Afriland Tower,” and signed on behalf of Falana & Falana’s Chambers by Taiwo Olawanle, the firm called for a full inquest to determine the causes and accountability for what it described as an “avoidable tragic incident.”
Responding to the request, the Lagos State Judiciary confirmed that the case has been assigned to Coroner Court 9 of the Igbosere District, sitting at Court 4, Yaba Magisterial District.
A notice signed by Senior Magistrate A. Adetunji announced that a preliminary meeting involving all relevant stakeholders would hold on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, to chart a path for the formal inquest proceedings.
“The preliminary meeting is hereby tentatively scheduled for Tuesday, the 14th of October, 2025, at Court 4, Yaba Magisterial District, at 9 a.m., pending confirmation of attendance and convenience of all parties,” the notice stated.
The forthcoming inquest is expected to establish the cause and circumstances of the victims’ deaths and make recommendations to help prevent similar tragedies in the future.