United Capital Plc has confirmed the death of six of its staff members in the fire that gutted Afriland Towers, a six-storey commercial complex in Lagos, on September 16.
The inferno, which reportedly began in the building’s basement inverter room, also claimed the lives of four officials of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
In a statement issued, the pan-African investment and financial services company described the loss as “immeasurable,” noting that a memorial service would be held in honour of the deceased.
“Our departed colleagues were an integral part of our company and family. Their painful loss leaves an immeasurable void,” the firm said.
“We extend our deepest and heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones. We continue to hold them in our thoughts and prayers, while also providing all the support we can during this most difficult time.”
The company also released the names of the six victims:
Jesutoni Shodipo (21): Graduate Intern, Compliance Department
Kehinde Adeoye (36): Officer, Compliance Department
Ndidi Osaemedike-Okeke (41): Staff, Trustees Division
Olumide Oyefodunrin (27): Trust Officer
Opeyemi Oloyede (26): Compliance Intern
Rebecca Adenuga (26): Executive Associate, Wealth Management
The incident has cast a pall over Nigeria’s financial sector, with tributes pouring in for the young professionals whose lives were cut short.
