Sanwo-Olu Orders Demolition of Fire-Ravaged GNI Building

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has ordered the demolition of the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building following the deadly fire incident that occurred on December 24.
The governor disclosed this in a statement posted on his official X account on Friday, warning residents and business owners that the area around the fire-ravaged structure remains unsafe. He stressed that no business activities or unauthorised presence should take place at the site.
According to Sanwo-Olu, the inferno claimed the lives of eight people, out of which five victims have been identified, while three remain unidentified. He added that 13 people were rescued alive during the emergency response.
Speaking during an on-site inspection, the governor expressed condolences to the families affected by the tragedy and urged the public to comply strictly with safety directives issued by the state government.
“No business or unauthorized activity should be taking place there. The area remains unsafe, and only first responders are permitted on the site,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He further noted that emergency and rescue teams are still working cautiously through the debris, particularly at the rear section of the building, to ensure that no one remains trapped under the rubble.
The demolition order, according to the governor, is part of measures to prevent further danger to lives and property, as investigations into the cause of the fire continue.