LASG Warns Public to Avoid Burnt High-Rise Site, Seals Off Surrounding Area
The Lagos State Government (LASG) has directed residents, traders and business owners near the burnt Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) 25-storey building on Martins Street, Lagos Island, to keep clear of the area as safety concerns escalate following a major fire earlier this month.
The government’s warning came after structural engineers and safety experts deployed to the scene flagged significant risks to life and property in buildings around the gutted structure. Authorities said that several neighbouring properties have now been deemed compromised and unsafe for occupation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, reiterated Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive that residents and businesses must vacate the vicinity immediately to avoid potential dangers. Officials said a safety cordon of up to 100 metres around the damaged high-rise has been established, and anyone found within the prohibited zone may face enforcement action.
Safety Measures and Enforcement
Another government team from the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) inspected the site and announced that all buildings within a 50-metre radius have been sealed off pending demolition of the unstable structure. Officials warned that disregarding the restriction could be treated as a criminal offence, with violators subject to arrest and prosecution.
LASBCA’s general manager, Gbaye Florence, stressed that the exclusion zone and building seals are essential precautions designed to prevent accidental collapses or further damage. The agency has also begun coordinating with other urban development and emergency response departments to monitor the perimeter and protect lives.
Authorities said a special task force has been constituted to oversee the deconstruction of the burnt building in the coming days. Technical experts are currently advising on the timeline and procedures for safely dismantling the compromised structure.
Background and Impact
The GNI building was severely damaged in a massive fire incident on December 24, 2025, which razed the 25-storey commercial and warehouse complex. The blaze destroyed valuable goods and property, and though there were no confirmed fatalities in initial reports, several people were reportedly injured and ongoing assessments revealed extensive structural damage.
The state government has emphasised that public safety is the top priority, urging full compliance with the evacuation order and warning that breach of the restricted zone is extremely dangerous. Emergency personnel and security teams continue to patrol the area to enforce the directive and assist residents in relocating safely.