Eight Killed in Lagos Island Fire as Omatu Family Mourns Three Brothers

A fire outbreak at the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building on Martins Street, Lagos Island, on December 24, 2025, claimed the lives of eight people, including three brothers from Ihiala, Anambra State.

The deceased brothers were identified as Stephen Onyeka Omatu, 50; Casmir Nnabuike Omatu, 39; and Collins Kenechukwu Omatu, 37.

The brothers were reportedly in Lagos in search of economic opportunities and were conducting business at the Great Nigeria House, a busy commercial complex housing offices, shops, and warehouses, when the incident occurred.

Family members said the fire broke out suddenly and spread rapidly through parts of the building, leaving occupants with little time to escape. Witnesses described scenes of panic as thick smoke filled the premises and people attempted to flee.

After firefighters eventually brought the blaze under control, the bodies of the three brothers were among those recovered from the building.

The tragedy has once again raised concerns over fire safety, emergency preparedness, and compliance with building regulations in Lagos’ densely populated commercial districts, where similar incidents have led to repeated loss of lives and property.

Those who knew the Omatu brothers described them as hardworking, closely bonded, and deeply committed to the welfare of both their immediate and extended family.

Following the incident, condolence messages have poured in from within and outside Anambra State. In Ihiala, religious bodies, youth groups, and community organizations have held prayer sessions in their memory, while also renewing calls for stricter enforcement of safety standards in commercial buildings.

A musical service was held in their honour on January 7, 2026, at Jesus the Saviour Catholic Church, Bucknor Ejigbo, Lagos.

According to the family, the brothers will be laid to rest in their hometown of Ihiala on January 14, 2026. Burial preparations are ongoing, with family members traveling from different parts of the country to pay their last respects. Representatives of various associations and traditional institutions are also expected to attend the funeral rites.