Broad Street, Lagos Island, turned chaotic on Tuesday afternoon as fire broke out at Afriland Tower, a six-storey commercial building.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service said the blaze started in the inverter room located in the basement.
Deputy Controller General Ogabi Olajide confirmed, “Evacuation of occupants is in progress, while operations have concluded dousing earlier panic.”
Firefighters from Ebute Elefun and Sari Iganmu stations arrived swiftly, containing the flames before they spread further.
Smoke, Screams and Desperate Escapes
Videos from the scene showed terrified workers jumping from windows. Onlookers rushed with ladders and foamy materials to help.
Some trapped occupants smashed windows to breathe. Others clung to ledges, waiting for rescue.
Eyewitnesses described the moment as terrifying. “Screams echoed across Broad Street as smoke spread rapidly through the upper floors.”
Photos showed thick smoke billowing from the top floors. Windows were forced open for ventilation.
The building, which houses offices including a UBA branch, was engulfed in smoke before emergency teams arrived.
Officials said no casualties were confirmed at press time, but one person appeared injured after jumping without support.
The fire service said the quick response helped prevent further damage and panic.
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