Nigerian investor and philanthropist, Tony O. Elumelu, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of colleagues in the fire incident at Afriland Towers, describing the experience as one of the toughest moments for the UBA community.
In a series of posts shared on Wednesday, Elumelu confirmed that members of his team were among those who died in the tragedy. “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,” he wrote.
He also addressed the initial response by the UBA Group communications team, admitting that the earlier statement was released too quickly. According to him, it “was put out in haste, without understanding the full gravity of what happened,” and therefore did not capture how deeply saddened the organisation is by the loss.
“The loss of a life is painful, all the more so when it is family and friends. We are praying for all the lives lost,” Elumelu added.
The UBA Chairman further revealed that the group had suspended operations for the day in honour of the deceased. “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,” he stated.