Tragedy struck on September 16, 2025, when a fire broke out at Afriland Towers, a six-storey commercial complex in Lagos that houses the offices of United Capital, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and several other firms. The fire began in the basement inverter room, and thick smoke quickly spread through the building, trapping many inside.

In the aftermath, United Capital Plc confirmed the deaths of six of its employees and released their names and photographs to the public. The company described the incident as one of the darkest moments in its history and announced that a memorial service is being prepared in their honour.

The six victims were young professionals across various departments, each contributing to different divisions of the company. They include Jesutoni Shodipo, a 21-year-old graduate intern in the compliance department, and Kehinde Adeoye, 36, who also worked in compliance. Also among the dead were Ndidi Osaemedike-Okeke, 41, a staff member in the trustees division, and Olumide Oyefodunrin, 27, a trust officer. Others are Opeyemi Oloyede, 26, an intern in compliance, and Rebecca Adenuga, 26, who served as an executive associate in the wealth management department.

News of their passing drew a wave of grief across social media, with colleagues, friends, and citizens expressing condolences and demanding accountability regarding safety measures in commercial buildings. Many noted that smoke inhalation was a major cause of the fatalities, as sealed windows in the tower made it difficult for those trapped to escape or breathe.

In its statement, United Capital described the six staff members as more than employees, calling them “family” whose absence would leave “an immeasurable void.” The company also thanked emergency services for their efforts during the crisis and pledged support to the bereaved families.

The Afriland Towers fire has since raised conversations about the need for stricter workplace safety regulations and proper emergency infrastructure in high-rise buildings. As Lagos mourns, the names and faces of these six young professionals serve as a painful reminder of the human cost of lapses in safety standards.