Tony Elumelu Mourns Afriland Towers Fire Victims, Apologizes for UBA’s Hasty Statement

Tony Elumelu Mourns Afriland Towers Fire Victims, Apologizes for UBA’s Hasty Statement

Business magnate and Chairman of UBA Group, Tony Elumelu, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic fire incident at Afriland Towers in Lagos, which claimed the lives of several people, including staff within the UBA community.

In an emotional message, Elumelu described the last few hours as “tough,” noting that the victims were not just colleagues but family and friends, making the loss even more painful.

He also addressed UBA’s initial public statement on the tragedy, admitting it was released in haste and did not capture the gravity of the incident. Elumelu described the misstep as “regrettable,” while reassuring the public that the bank is truly heartbroken.

“The past few hours have been tough. We and others lost colleagues in the fire at Afriland Towers.

As a community, we are grieving for all and doing what we can to support their families and loved ones.

I also saw the initial statement from the comms team at UBA Group – which was put out in haste, without understanding the full gravity of what happened. This is regrettable. The statement does not reflect how deeply saddened we are. The loss of a life is painful, all the more so when it is family and friends.

Our Group paused today to reflect and remember all who passed. They are irreplaceable and will remain in our memories always. May their souls rest in perfect peace and may God comfort their loved ones and us all.”

The Afriland Towers fire, which broke out earlier this week, left multiple casualties and has thrown families, friends, and the Lagos business community into mourning.

🕯️ May the souls of the departed rest in peace.

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