Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu says the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building on Martins Street, Balogun Market, Lagos Island, will be demolished after firefighters completely put out the fire that guts the structure.
According to Mediaplusng.com, the governor makes the announcement during an on-the-spot assessment of the fire scene, where he confirms that no lives are lost in the incident, although some persons sustain injuries and are receiving medical treatment.
The fire, which starts on Wednesday afternoon, spreads across parts of Balogun Market, destroying goods and properties worth millions of naira. Emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Federal Fire Service, LASTMA, and other agencies, remain on ground to control the inferno and secure the area.
Governor Sanwo-Olu explains, as reported by Mediaplusng.com, that the state government sets up a committee to manage the demolition process. The committee is headed by the Commissioner for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr. Gbenga Oyerinde, and is expected to oversee a safe and orderly demolition within the next few days.
The governor urges traders, residents, and the general public to stay away from the affected area for safety reasons, warning that weakened structures could pose serious risks. He also advises Lagos residents to remain safety-conscious during the dry season, noting that fire outbreaks become more frequent at this time of the year.
Sanwo-Olu assures affected traders that the state government will not abandon them. He says officials will carry out a full assessment of losses and design appropriate support measures to help victims recover from the incident.
The governor further directs all first responders to maintain a strong presence at the scene to prevent a resurgence of the fire and to ensure public safety. He stresses that emergency agencies must continue monitoring the area until the situation is fully under control.
Eyewitnesses describe the fire as intense, with thick smoke and flames visible for several hours, forcing traders in nearby buildings to hurriedly evacuate their goods. Authorities say investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing.
The Lagos State Government reiterates its commitment to improving fire safety standards, strengthening emergency response systems, and protecting lives and property across the state, especially in densely populated commercial areas like Balogun Market.
