- Safiu Kehinde
Afriland Properties Plc has confirmed Tuesday’s fire outbreak at its Lagos headquarters.
NPO Reported that the popular Afriland Tower situated at Broad Street, Lagos Island, was yesterday engulfed in thick smoke with it occupants scampering for safety.
Videos of the scary incident showed staff of firms and companies within the eight-storey building forcefully evacuated with some jumping off the building.
While no casualties were reported, some of the occupants sustained minor injuries with some seen unconscious on account of suspected inhalation of the toxic smoke.
Confirming the incident in a statement issued yesterday by its Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications, Chukwunonso Okafor, Afriland expressed regret over the incident.
The firm however commended the emergency and rescue team for their swift response which mitigating further damage and managing the situation.
While sympathising with for those affected, Afriland attributed the likely cause of the incident to initial reports of technical glitch in the inverter room.
“Afriland Properties Plc regrets to inform that a fire incident occurred today (Tuesday) at Afriland Towers, our headquarters, located on Broad Street, Lagos Island, Lagos.
“From the moment the incident was reported, the Federal Fire Service, Lagos State Fire Service and other emergency services were promptly alerted and on the scene to contain the fire and coordinate rescue efforts.
“Their swift intervention was instrumental in mitigating further damage and managing the situation,” the statement partly read.
“We are deeply saddened by this incident. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted, and we extend our heartfelt sympathies to their families and loved ones.
“While an immediate investigation has commenced, initial reports indicate that the incident began in the inverter room, and, regrettably, smoke spread quickly through the building, including the emergency exits, even as standard safety protocols were being observed during the evacuation.” the statement partly read.
The company further stated that it is cooperating with regulators while assuring the public of releasing more details of the incident as they unravel.
“Afriland Properties Plc is working closely with the relevant authorities even as more information emerges. We sincerely appreciate the heroic efforts of the emergency responders, first aid workers, and members of the public who assisted with the incident today.
“Afriland Properties Plc will continue to provide timely updates as verified information becomes available.” It added.