A fire broke out on Tuesday in a building on Broad Street, Lagos Island, prompting the evacuation of occupants and raising concerns for the safety of staff and customers at a United Bank for Africa (UBA) branch located in the structure. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze originated in the inverter room in the basement of the Afriland Tower. Firefighters from nearby stations quickly brought the fire under control.
Deputy Controller General Ogabi Olajide reported that the fire service received the call at 13:38 hours and dispatched crews to the scene, preventing the incident from spreading beyond smoke‑filled floors. The swift response allowed the situation to be contained and ensured that all occupants were safely evacuated.
UBA confirmed the incident, emphasizing that its customers and staff are safe. The bank clarified that the affected building is not its head office, UBA House in Marina, but a separate facility that houses one of its many branches. In a statement, UBA assured that the safety and well‑being of its staff and customers at the branch had been secured.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene, with occupants jumping from the building in fear while onlookers assisted with ladders and foam. Trapped workers broke glass windows to breathe, and residents below stretched out their hands to catch them. Smoke spread rapidly through the upper floors, prompting an immediate evacuation.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has now concluded its operations, and the situation is under control. The incident underscores the importance of prompt emergency response and effective safety measures in commercial buildings, and the bank’s assurance of safety provides relief to those affected. It serves as a reminder of the need to prioritize safety and emergency preparedness in busy urban areas.
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