Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has visited the site of the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building, which was destroyed by a fire on December 24, expressing sympathy with families affected by the tragedy.
The governor confirmed that eight people have died as a result of the incident. Five of the victims have been identified, while three remain unidentified. He also disclosed that 13 people have been rescued so far.
According to Sanwo-Olu, an information centre has been set up at the site to support affected individuals. Officers from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA), and other relevant agencies are on ground to provide assistance and information.
He warned that the area remains unsafe and has been cordoned off. The market has been closed, and only authorized emergency responders are allowed access as rescue teams continue a careful search through the rubble, particularly at the rear of the building, to ensure no one remains trapped.
The governor noted that preliminary findings point to dangerous practices in the area, including the unsafe use of generators and the construction of shops around electrical transformers, which significantly heightened the risk.
Following a comprehensive structural assessment, Sanwo-Olu announced that the GNI building will be demolished using safe methods, along with some surrounding structures deemed hazardous. He acknowledged that the decision was difficult but emphasized that public safety must take priority.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to overseeing the recovery process and ensuring support for all families and businesses affected by the incident.
