By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo has expressed profound condolences and deep sorrow over the devastating fire incident that claimed the lives of some indigenes of Anambra State at the Great Nigeria Insurance House on Martins Street, Lagos Island, on December 24, 2025.

Soludo in a letter of commiseration signed by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, condoled with all families that lost their loved ones in the unfortunate inferno, describing it as a catastrophic event that has transformed what should have been a joyous Christmas Event into a night of unspeakable tragedy.

While noting that the incident has left numerous hearts heavy with grief, the Governor said, "I am particularly devastated by the loss of three sons of Anambra State, namely Mr. Steve Onyeka Omatu (40), Mr. Casmir Nnabuike Omatu (39), and Mr. Collins Kenechukwu Omatu (37), brothers from the Omatu family of Uzoakwa Community in Ihiala Local Government Area.

"These industrious young men, who were simply striving to earn an honest living for their families, have been taken from us in the most tragic circumstances. Their loss represents not just a family tragedy but a collective loss to Anambra State."

He commended the response of the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Fire Service, and all other emergency responders who worked tirelessly to rescue victims and contain the situation.

Soludo also advised Anambra citizens residing in Lagos and other parts of the country to always prioritise human life and personal safety over recovering property and goods in the event of a fire outbreak.

He further commiserated with the wife of a China based businessman who also lost his life in the inferno, while trying to salvage his goods.

"I wish all affected families the strength to bear and recover from their irreplaceable losses, while praying that the souls of all the departed rest in perfect peace.

"I call on relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and ensure that appropriate measures are put in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future", the Governor stated.