A devastating fire gutted the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) House on Lagos Island, claiming the lives of three brothers—Steve (40), Casmir (39), and Collins Omatu (37).
The blaze, which started on the fourth floor, quickly spread to other levels, collapsing a seven-floor section and trapping traders and market assistants.
A surviving twin, Camillus Omatu, escaped the inferno. Their sister, Mimi Nonyerem, confirmed that a service of songs will hold on January 7, while the burial will take place in Anambra State on January 14.
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She urged prayers and invited those in Ihiala to attend.
Preliminary investigations by Lagos State Emergency Management Agency reveal serious fire safety violations, including overstocked combustible materials, lack of ventilation, unsafe generator use, and shops built around transformers.
Emergency responders continue recovery operations, with eight bodies retrieved and about 20 people still missing.
Authorities warn that such hazardous conditions can lead to spontaneous ignition, highlighting the urgent need for strict fire safety compliance in commercial buildings.