“We Saw Glimpses Of Our Better Selves” – Saraki On Afriland Towers Fire, Mourns

Former Senate President Bukola Saraki has described the fire outbreak at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island, as a heartbreaking tragedy that has left families and the nation in mourning.

The fire, which broke out on Tuesday at the six-storey building housing multiple businesses including a branch of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) and an office of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), claimed lives and disrupted operations in the busy commercial district.

Reacting to the incident, Saraki said it was painful that men and women who left their homes that morning in search of livelihood never returned.

He commiserated with the families of the victims, while also praising the courage of first responders and residents who joined in rescue efforts.

“Yet, amidst this tragedy, we saw glimpses of our better selves. We saw everyday people join the first responders to risk their lives to rescue those who were trapped. In a country where cynicism is often loudest, their heroism stands out for showing us the best of who we are,” Saraki said.

He urged the authorities to thoroughly investigate the cause of the fire and hold accountable anyone found negligent. He added that beyond establishing responsibility, the country must confront the structural issues that make such disasters more devastating.

“Why do so many of our buildings lack proper fire exits? Why are access roads so clogged that fire trucks cannot get through? And why are our emergency services chronically underfunded?” he asked.

Saraki called for stricter enforcement of building codes, better urban planning, and improved investment in fire stations and modern equipment to match the rapid growth of Nigerian cities.

“To the bereaved families, I pray that you find strength in this dark hour. And to those who risked everything to save others, thank you for reminding us of what it means to be a Nigerian,” he said.