A fire outbreak on Adeola Odeku Street, in upmarket Victoria Island, Lagos, on Tuesday morning, November 1, was caused by a power generator explosion.
At least one person has been confirmed dead.
As the fire raged in the early hours, individuals and some private firefighters were seen making efforts to contain the massive fireball.
The Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) has now broken its silence on the incident, saying the fire emanated from the generator house.
“Investigation gathered at the scene revealed the fire emanated from the generator house,” LASEMA says.
“Also, nine persons, all male adults, suffered burns and injuries and were taken to an undisclosed hospital.
“A car belonging to Rapid Response Squad (RRS) was also burnt outside the building.
“First responders including officials of LASEMA, Lagos Fire Service and Rescue, amongst others, prevented the fire from spreading,” the agency says.
The agency also says the dampening down of the incident scene is ongoing.
One body recovered
Adeseye Margaret, the Director, Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, says an industrial generating set which was being fixed, exploded and ravaged the building.
“The generator which was housed within the premises of a commercial bank, also affected an adjoining Toyota Saloon Car belonging to the Rapid Response Squad of the Lagos Command of the Nigerian Police stationed outside the premises.
“Unfortunately, a male adult was recovered severely burnt beyond recognition and handed over to the Police from Bar-Beach Division while the four-storey commercial building was saved and the RRS Policemen escaped unhurt.
“Further report will be given as the investigation into the cause of the incident is completed.”