Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has officially confirmed that eight individuals lost their lives in the devastating fire that consumed the 22-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building on Martins Street, Lagos Island. The tragic incident occurred on Christmas Eve, 24 December.
Governor's On-the-Spot Assessment Reveals Grim Details
Governor Sanwo-Olu visited the fire-ravaged site on Friday, 2nd January 2026, for a firsthand assessment, nine days after the inferno began. During the visit, he revealed the human cost of the disaster. Thirteen people were successfully rescued alive from the building during the emergency response.
Of the eight confirmed fatalities, the identities of five have been established. However, three victims were burned beyond recognition. The governor disclosed that DNA testing will be conducted to ascertain their identities and provide closure to their families.
Describing the event as deeply painful, Governor Sanwo-Olu led his team in observing a minute of silence to honour the deceased.
Human Error and Safety Failures Blamed
The governor attributed the cause of the fire to human error, highlighting a critical failure in adhering to safety protocols. His inspection uncovered dangerous practices that exacerbated the risk. Multiple generators were found operating on different floors of nearby shopping plazas, a violation that significantly increases fire hazards.
The blaze did not confine itself to the GNI building; it also affected several adjoining structures along Martins, Shitta, and Breadfruit streets. This spread underscored the vulnerability of the densely packed commercial area.
Tough Decisions: Demolition and Ongoing Safety Measures
In response to the catastrophe, Governor Sanwo-Olu announced decisive actions. He stated that the government would not hesitate to demolish any structure found to have failed integrity tests following thorough technical assessments. A phased and carefully controlled demolition of the affected GNI building is planned.
He issued a stern warning to residents, traders, and passers-by to stay away from the cordoned-off area. Security personnel and emergency agencies remain on-site to secure the location and prevent secondary incidents.
The governor also made a heartfelt appeal to business owners, urging them to prioritise human life over material possessions during emergencies. He noted with regret that some victims had initially been safely evacuated but tragically returned to retrieve goods before being trapped by the flames.
Support for Affected Families
To aid the recovery process, the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has established a help desk at the scene. This desk is tasked with documenting reports of missing persons whose shops or businesses were located within the affected plaza. LASEMA is collaborating with other emergency responders to ensure proper documentation and support for the families impacted by the fire.
Governor Sanwo-Olu was accompanied during the inspection by key officials including the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso; the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Gbenga Oyerinde; and the Permanent Secretary of LASEMA, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu.
Martins Street remains closed to all business activities as recovery efforts and structural assessments continue. The state government has promised to provide further updates as the situation develops.
