The Lagos State Government has set up a Technical Recovery and Demolition Committee to manage the controlled demolition of the fire-damaged 23-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building.
Margaret Adeseye, Controller General of the State Fire and Rescue Service, announced that the committee will create and implement a safety-focused demolition plan. The building has been deemed structurally unsafe, and officials emphasized the need for a cautious approach to debris removal to avoid triggering further collapses.
The fire service remains on-site alongside other emergency agencies, monitoring pockets of fire from combustible materials stored in the building. Though these fires do not pose an immediate threat, officials warned against disturbing the debris hastily.
Authorities reported eight fatalities, with five victims identified, and thirteen individuals rescued alive. Ongoing searches are aimed at ensuring no one is trapped beneath the rubble. Initial investigations revealed multiple fire safety violations, including overstocking combustible materials and inadequate ventilation.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service reassured residents that operations will continue until all risks are resolved, urging the public to remain calm and patient during the recovery process.
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