Korede Abdullah 
LAGOS, Nigeria – Polaris Bank and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service have dismissed reports claiming that dozens of people died in Thursday’s fire incident at the bank’s headquarters on Broad Street, Lagos Island, confirming that no casualties were recorded.
The clarification follows widespread social media reports alleging that more than 34 people were feared dead after a fire broke out inside the 17-storey Polaris Bank Tower at 61/65 Broad Street.
In a statement issued after the incident, Polaris Bank said the fire originated from a customer’s vehicle parked on the third-floor car park of the building and was swiftly contained before it could spread.
“We are pleased to confirm that there were no casualties or fatalities. Consequently, reports circulating on social media claiming that over 34 persons were feared dead are false and entirely inaccurate,” the bank said.
The bank added that investigations were ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident.
Confirming the development, Controller-General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, said emergency responders received a distress call at about 11:33 a.m. regarding a stationary saloon vehicle that caught fire on the third floor of the building.
According to Adeseye, firefighters from the Ebute Elefun and Sari Iganmu fire stations responded promptly and successfully prevented the flames from spreading to other vehicles and sections of the structure.
“The only damage recorded was to the affected vehicle and its immediate surroundings. No casualties or injuries were reported,” she said.
She commended emergency personnel for their swift and professional response, noting that the operation had been concluded successfully and normal activities restored around the area.
About the Author
Hussaini Ibrahim 
