The Omatu family is preparing to lay to rest three sons lost in a devastating fire that consumed the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House on Lagos Island, marking a profound tragedy just weeks after the incident.
Burial Arrangements Announced for Lost Brothers
A sister of the deceased, Mimi Nonyerem, shared the heartbreaking details via her Facebook page. A service of songs will be held in Lagos State on January 7, 2026, followed by the interment of the brothers in their hometown. The burial ceremony is scheduled for January 14, 2026, in Ihiala, Anambra State.
In her emotional appeal, Nonyerem requested prayers for divine protection for her family and invited friends and well-wishers in Anambra to attend the final rites. The three brothers were identified as Steve Omatu, 40; Casmir Omatu, 39; and Collins Omatu, 37.
Recovery Efforts Continue After Fatal Blaze
The inferno, which broke out on December 24, originated on the fourth floor of the 25-storey building before rapidly spreading. The intensity of the fire led to a partial collapse of the plaza, trapping numerous individuals inside, including market traders and assistants.
Emergency responders worked tirelessly at the scene, rescuing several injured victims. Eight males were transported to the hospital, while others received first aid and were discharged on-site. The Lagos State Government confirmed that recovery operations persisted for days, with another body retrieved eight days after the initial outbreak.
A Recurring National Safety Concern
This tragic event has again cast a spotlight on the frequency of deadly fire incidents across Nigeria. Common contributing factors often cited by safety experts include:
- Electrical faults and power surges
- Improper storage of flammable materials
- Lapses in building safety standards and enforcement
Authorities continue to investigate the exact cause of the GNI building fire. The incident has left the Omatu family and the broader community in mourning, a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved fire safety protocols in commercial and residential structures nationwide.
