United Capital Plc has disclosed the identities of six staff members who perished in a fire at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos, on Tuesday, September 16, 2025. The announcement was made via a post on Monday, September 22, 2025.
The deceased are Jesutoni Shodipo (Compliance), Kehinde Adeoye (Compliance), Ndidi Osaemedike-Okeke (Trustee), Olumide Oyefodunrin (Compliance), Opeyemi Oloyede, and Rebecca Adenuga (Wealth).
The fire claimed at least 10 lives, including six United Capital employees and four from the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). In a statement, United Capital expressed deep sorrow, describing the deceased as integral to the company and noting the immense void left by their loss. The company extended condolences to the families and friends of the deceased, pledging support during this difficult time and planning a memorial service to honor their lives.
The FIRS also confirmed the loss of four staff members: Mrs. Ekelikhostse George (Assistant Director), Mr. David Sunday-Jatto (Assistant Director), Mrs. Nkem Onyemelukwe (Senior Manager), and Mr. Peter Ifaranmaye (Manager). Jatto was reportedly at the office to hand over duties after a redeployment when the tragedy occurred.
Emergency agencies reported that the fire originated in the inverter room in the building’s basement, with smoke spreading across multiple floors, trapping occupants. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, through his spokesman Bayo Onanuga, urged greater caution and training to prevent future incidents. He offered condolences to Afriland Properties Limited, FIRS, UBA, and the families of the victims, while commending emergency responders for their swift actions. Tinubu prayed for the souls of the departed and a speedy recovery for the injured.
