By Ghazali Ibrahim
In a devastating fire incident that engulfed Afriland Towers, Lagos Island last Tuesday, United Capital Plc has released the names of six of its employees who tragically lost their lives in the inferno.
The names was confirmed through a post made on Monday 22 September.
The victims identified by the company are: Jesutoni Shodipo, Kehinde Adeoye, Ndidi Osaemedike-Okeke, Olumide Oyefodunrin, Opeyemi Oloyede, and Rebecca Adenuga.
In total, 10 people died in the incident six from United Capital and four from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
Confirming the deaths, United Capital described the loss as “profoundly painful,” noting that the deceased were not only employees but family.
“Our departed colleagues were an integral part of our company and family. Their painful loss leaves an immeasurable void. We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones. We are making preparations for an appropriate memorial service to honour their lives and mark their passing with dignity and solemnity,” the company said in a statement.
The FIRS also confirmed that four of its senior officials died in the blaze. They include Mrs. Ekelikhostse George, Mr. David Sunday-Jatto, Mrs. Nkem Onyemelukwe, and Mr. Peter Ifaranmaye.
Tragically, Jatto was in the office on the fateful day only to hand over to his successor following a redeployment when the fire claimed his life.
Emergency responders revealed that the fire originated in the inverter room located in the basement of the high-rise before spreading thick smoke across several floors, trapping occupants.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a condolence message through his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, extended sympathy to the families of the deceased, United Capital, FIRS, UBA, and Afriland Properties Limited.
Tinubu urged greater caution, training, and preparedness to prevent future tragedies, while commending first responders and medical teams for their swift action during the evacuation.
“The President prays that God Almighty will receive the souls of the departed and grant quick recovery to the injured,” the statement read.
