Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has expressed deep sorrow and condolences over the devastating fire incident at the Great Nigeria Insurance House on Martins Street, Lagos Island, which occurred on December 24, 2025.
The inferno claimed the lives of three brothers of Anambra descent who were reportedly involved in the incident. The victims, described as businessmen operating within the affected facility, were identified as Mr Steve Onyeka Omatu (40), Mr Casmir Nnabuike Omatu (39), and Mr Collins Kenechukwu Omatu (37). They were members of the Omatu family from Uzoakwa Community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
In a condolence message made available to journalists in Awka by his Press Secretary, Mr Christian Aburime, Governor Soludo commiserated with the bereaved families and all those who lost loved ones in the tragic fire outbreak.
According to the statement, the governor described the incident as a catastrophic event that turned what should have been a joyous Christmas Eve into a moment of profound tragedy, leaving many families overwhelmed with grief.
Governor Soludo said he was particularly devastated by the loss of the three Anambra sons, noting that the young men were industrious individuals who were working hard to earn an honest living for their families.
“Their death represents not only a personal and family tragedy but also a collective loss to Anambra State,” the statement read.
The governor prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and asked God to grant the affected families the strength to endure their irreplaceable losses. He also called on relevant authorities to carry out a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and to ensure that adequate safety measures are implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Mr Aburime added that Governor Soludo commended the prompt response of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Fire Service, and other emergency responders for their efforts in rescuing victims and containing the situation.
The governor further advised Anambra citizens living in Lagos and other parts of the country to always prioritise the preservation of human life and personal safety over the recovery of property and goods during fire outbreaks.
