Table of Contents
- Evacuation Order Issued
- Fire Incident Details
- Assessment Results
- Concerns About Shop Owners
- Government Commitment
The Lagos State Government has announced its readiness to implement Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive for the immediate evacuation of residents and businesses situated around the burned Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building.
This information was conveyed in a statement released on Tuesday by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, which he shared on his official Facebook page.
According to DAILY POST, the 25-storey GNI building was engulfed in flames on Wednesday, December 24, 2025.
Omotoso stated that the decision to enforce the evacuation was based on a thorough assessment of the affected structure by safety experts, who warned that the building now presents a significant threat to lives and property in the vicinity.
“The Lagos State Government is prepared to enforce Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive that residents and businesses around the burnt Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building must vacate the area immediately,” the statement indicated.
“The government has dispatched experts to evaluate the site of the fire, and their findings clearly indicate a serious risk to lives and property within a 100-meter radius of the building.
“Several nearby structures have been compromised and must be evacuated as a precautionary measure.”
The commissioner also expressed concerns regarding the behavior of some shop owners, noting that individuals have been violating the restricted zone established around the fire site.
“Some shop owners are breaching the no-movement barrier set up at the scene. This is extremely hazardous and must cease,” the statement continued.
The state government reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and urged affected residents and business owners to fully comply with the evacuation order for the sake of public safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the evacuation order being enforced?
The evacuation order is being enforced due to safety assessments that indicate the burnt GNI building poses a significant threat to lives and property in the area.
What should residents and business owners do?
Residents and business owners are urged to comply fully with the evacuation order to ensure their safety and the safety of others.
What are the consequences of not evacuating?
Failure to evacuate could result in serious injury or loss of life due to potential hazards associated with the compromised building and surrounding structures.



