Tony Elumelu mourns the Afriland Towers fire tragedy that claimed staff lives on Lagos Island.
He cut short his U.S. trip, pledging support, remembrance, and stronger safety measures for employees.
The Chairman of Afriland Properties Plc, Tony Elumelu, has expressed deep sorrow over the fire outbreak at Afriland Towers on Lagos Island that claimed the lives of some staff members.
The company had earlier confirmed it had launched an immediate investigation into the Tuesday blaze at its six-storey building on Broad Street but did not reveal the number of casualties. United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc, where Elumelu also serves as chairman, occupies part of the tower managed by Afriland Properties.
In an internal message to employees, Elumelu described the tragedy as an immeasurable loss to the organization, the victims’ families and their colleagues. He noted that the incident underscored the importance of safeguarding human lives and the value of every staff member.
According to him, he learned of the fire while travelling to the United States for the UN General Assembly but cut short his trip to return to Lagos in solidarity with those affected. He encouraged staff to support colleagues who were injured or bereaved, and announced plans for a remembrance gathering to honor the deceased.
Elumelu also praised emergency responders and members of the public who assisted during the incident, saying a moment of silence would be observed across all group companies to pay respect to the victims. He concluded by wishing the departed eternal rest and called for strengthened safety measures to prevent future tragedies.
