The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has expressed deep concern over the recent fire incidents that rocked Lagos Island, including the one at Afriland Tower on Broad Street.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Obasa commiserated with victims of the tragedy and commended the swift intervention of emergency responders, whose efforts helped to contain the situation and prevent further casualties.

He emphasized the need to prioritise public safety and called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the inferno to avert a recurrence.

“My thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected, and I commend the quick response of our emergency services in managing the situation.”

“It is crucial that we ensure the safety of our citizens and investigate the cause of this fire to prevent future occurrences, he said.

The Speaker also urged stakeholders to work collaboratively in addressing safety challenges while extending support to individuals and businesses affected by the disaster.

The incident at Afriland Tower occurred just hours before another fire outbreak was reported at Central Plaza, Mandilas Market, also on Lagos Island.

Traders and shop owners were seen in distress as they attempted to salvage goods from their shops, while thick smoke billowed across the busy commercial hub, causing panic among residents and passersby.

Fire service officials were immediately deployed to the scene to battle the flames and curb its spread to adjoining buildings.

The back-to-back fire outbreaks have heightened concerns over safety measures in the state’s commercial centres, with calls for stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations.