LASEMA Orders Evacuation Amid Fire at Great Nigeria Insurance House, Lagos Island
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has called on residents and traders near the Great Nigeria Insurance House on Martins Street, Lagos Island, to evacuate immediately due to a rapidly spreading fire.
The alert was issued by LASEMA Permanent Secretary, Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, following an assessment of the incident on Wednesday night.
According to earlier reports, the fire broke out around 5 p.m. on the fourth floor of the 22-storey building before spreading to other floors. Oke-Osanyintolu noted that the number of casualties was still unknown as rescue operations were ongoing.
“Preliminary assessments indicate that the fire has escalated quickly across multiple floors, posing serious risks to lives, nearby buildings, and the safety of the public,” he said.
The LASEMA boss urged all residents, traders, and occupants of neighbouring buildings to evacuate immediately to avoid potential harm from smoke, structural collapse, or fire spread.
He added that emergency responders were actively battling the blaze and advised the public to remain calm, steer clear of the area, and follow all safety instructions.
“Members of the public should not return to the scene until officially cleared, avoid obstructing emergency operations, and strictly adhere to directives from security and emergency personnel. LASEMA will continue to provide timely updates as the fire suppression and rescue efforts proceed. We remain committed to safeguarding lives and property and appeal for full public cooperation,” Oke-Osanyintolu said.
