By Seun Olayemi, Reporting
PALPABLE panic and confusion gripped Onikan, Lagos Island, earlier today following a fire outbreak at Afriland Towers, a prominent commercial building in the area.
Eyewitnesses reported that the fire, which began in the building’s basement, was triggered by an explosion from an inverter battery. Thick smoke quickly spread through exit routes, complicating evacuation efforts and leaving several occupants in distress.
According to accounts from those at the scene, some individuals were trapped for hours before they could be rescued. Witnesses further alleged that among those trapped was a pregnant woman, heightening fear and urgency.
One resident, visibly shaken, recounted:
“The last set of people they rescued were already weak before they managed to bring them out. It was a terrible scene.”
Officials of the Lagos State Fire Service eventually arrived, but eyewitnesses criticised their response, alleging that the team came without sufficient water or a functional ladder, despite their station being only a few streets away.
“To think the fire service is located nearby, yet they came unprepared, is shocking,” a bystander lamented.
Firefighters later confirmed that they conducted a thorough sweep of the building, including the restrooms, and found no one left inside.
The incident has once again raised concerns about emergency preparedness and response capacity in Lagos, particularly in high-rise commercial buildings across the city.
Firefighter
Authorities are yet to release an official statement on the extent of the damage, possible casualties, or ongoing investigations into safety protocols at Afriland Towers.
This is a developing story. Videos from the scene will be published in subsequent updates.
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