Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed sorrow over the devastating fire that gutted the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House, Balogun Market, Lagos Island.
The building was gutted by fire on December 24 while the cause remains undetermined.
Obi described the incident as “heartbreaking” and a grim reminder of Nigeria’s emergency response gaps.
Obi on his verified ‘X’ handle yesterday said his thoughts and prayers were with all those affected by the tragedy,” particularly families who lost loved ones in the inferno.
“I have just received the heartbreaking news of the fire that gutted the Great Nigeria Insurance House in Balogun Market, Lagos Island.
“My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy,” he said. The former Anambra State governor extended condolences to bereaved families, noting that the scale of loss had shaken Nigerians across the country.
“To the families and loved ones of those who have lost their lives, I extend my deepest condolences,” Obi wrote.
While commending the Lagos State government for its intervention, Obi specifically praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) for coordinating rescue efforts at the scene.
However, Obi stressed that rescue operations must be intensified, particularly for victims believed to be trapped beneath the rubble.
He made a passionate appeal for urgent action to save lives, singling out the Omatu brothers whose reported phone calls from under the debris have stirred nationwide concern.
“However, we must not stop here. I plead with the government and all relevant agencies to intensify efforts to rescue those still trapped under the rubble, especially the Omatu brothers, whose distressing phone calls and their family’s public pleas have captured the hearts of Nigerians everywhere.”
Obi described the incident as a wake-up call for authorities at all levels, urging a serious review of emergency preparedness, safety standards and building regulations.
“This tragedy serves as a poignant reminder that our emergency services need improvement. Let this moment serve as a call to action for better preparedness, stronger regulations, and a renewed commitment to protecting our citizens.”
He further called on Nigerians to show solidarity with affected families and to continue praying for those still trapped.
“I urge all Nigerians to pray for the rescue of the trapped and support the families affected,” Obi appealed.
Meanwhile, Lagos State government has ordered residents and business operators around the burnt GNI building on Martins Street, Lagos Island, to vacate immediately.
The directive followed safety concerns raised by structural experts after the fire incident at the 25-storey building.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, confirmed the order in a statement on Tuesday.
He said the action was in line with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s instruction to prevent loss of lives and property.
Omotoso said experts assessing the building warned that structures within a 100-metre radius were at serious risk.
“Based on expert evaluation, several buildings around the scene have been compromised and must be evacuated immediately.”
The commissioner stressed that the integrity of the burnt building could no longer be guaranteed.
He added that continued human and commercial activities around the site posed grave danger.
Omotoso expressed concern that some shop owners were violating the safety cordon around the area.
“We have observed shop owners breaking into the restricted zone. This is extremely dangerous and must stop forthwith.”
He said the government would enforce the order if necessary, urging cooperation with emergency and security officials.
Omotoso reaffirmed the government’s commitment to safety, noting it would always take precedence over commercial interests.
Credit: The Sun