Afriland Properties Plc has released a detailed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) document addressing public concerns over the fire outbreak at Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos Island, which claimed the lives of 10 people earlier this week.
The FAQs were signed by Chukwunonso Okafor, Head of Brand, Marketing, and Corporate Communications at Afriland Properties Plc.
Recall that the tragedy, which originated from the building’s basement inverter room, forced several occupants to jump from windows in desperate attempts to escape the choking smoke.
The incident has drawn widespread grief and raised urgent questions about safety protocols, emergency response, and facility preparedness.
According to Afriland Properties, the fire began at 1:20 pm in the inverter room.
Though safety protocols were activated immediately, “the thick black smoke and intense heat generated quickly filled the basement and spread rapidly throughout the building,” the firm explained.
Occupants who could not access designated exits resorted to jumping through windows. Afriland said:
“The smoke spread rapidly throughout the building, severely compromising visibility and restricting access to evacuation routes. Under these conditions, some occupants resorted to exiting through windows.”
The company added that two emergency staircases and multiple ground-floor exits existed, but smoke infiltration made them nearly unusable.
Questions have mounted over whether the fire alarms, sprinklers, and smoke extractors functioned as designed. Afriland insisted that alarms were triggered, though “some occupants indicated they heard them, while some others didn’t,” and confirmed an ongoing investigation.
The FAQs further stressed that the tower was equipped with safety features, including smoke extractors, fire reels, and extinguishers, and that regular fire drills had been conducted with oversight from federal and state fire services.
Afriland confirmed 10 fatalities, including staff of United Capital Plc and the Federal Inland Revenue Service. The company attributed the deaths primarily to smoke inhalation.
“We extend our deepest condolences to their families and are working closely with the affected organisations to ensure the bereaved are supported with compassion and practical assistance,” said Chukwunonso Okafor, Head of Brand, Marketing, and Corporate Communications at Afriland.
The firm disclosed that counselling, medical evaluations, and long-term welfare support are being offered to staff and families affected by the tragedy.
Afriland Towers will remain closed for safety audits, cleaning, and reconstruction before re-occupation. The firm confirmed that the building was insured and that the official report will determine compensation processes.
The company pledged a comprehensive safety review across all facilities it manages and promised to implement “elevated safety protocols beyond regulatory requirements.”
Afriland added:“There are invaluable lessons that will not only help prevent a reoccurrence but also provide guidance to other organisations in strengthening disaster prevention measures.”
