Afriland Properties Plc has said that a malfunctioned inverter battery was the cause of the fire outbreak at their Towers at Broad Street, which claimed multiple lives and left several others injured.
In a statement issued over the weekend, the company said the fire originated from lithium batteries powering the inverter system in the basement, which emitted thick black smoke and intense heat.
It further stated that safety protocols were immediately activated, but the smoke rapidly filled the basement and spread throughout the building, severely compromising visibility and restricting access to evacuation routes.
“Some occupants had to escape by jumping from windows amid intense confusion and challenging conditions,” the statement said.
Afriland Properties clarified that the fatalities, which included staff of United Capital Plc and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, were primarily caused by smoke inhalation.
The company said fire alarms and safety systems, including smoke extractors, fire extinguishers, and emergency staircases, were in place and compliant with federal and state fire safety regulations.
It, however, acknowledged reports that not all occupants heard the alarms and said investigations were ongoing.
The firm also dispelled rumours of delayed emergency response, stating that responders arrived within 20 minutes of the outbreak.
Afriland Properties extended condolences to the bereaved families and said it was working with relevant organisations to provide support.
It said the building would remain closed pending a comprehensive structural and safety review.
The company pledged continued cooperation with regulatory bodies and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening safety protocols across its portfolio.
It also expressed gratitude to emergency services and citizens who assisted during the incident.
