Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State has expressed deep sorrow over the death of three brothers from the state who lost their lives in the fire that gutted the Great Nigeria Insurance House on Lagos Island on December 24, 2025.
The victims—Steve Onyeka Omatu, 40; Casmir Nnabuike Omatu, 39; and Collins Kenechukwu Omatu, 37—were businessmen operating within the affected facility. They hail from the Omatu family of Uzoakwa Community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State.
In a statement issued in Awka by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, the governor extended his condolences to the bereaved families and all others affected by the tragedy, describing the incident as a devastating blow that turned Christmas Eve into a moment of profound grief.
“The governor regrets that this catastrophic event, which transformed what should have been a joyous Christmas Eve into a night of unspeakable tragedy, has left numerous hearts heavy with grief,” the statement said.
Soludo said he was particularly pained by the loss of the three Anambra indigenes, describing them as hardworking young men who were striving to provide for their families.
“These industrious young men, who were simply striving to earn an honest living for their families, have been taken from us in the most tragic circumstances. Their loss represents not just a family tragedy but a collective loss to Anambra State,” he said.
The governor prayed for the repose of the souls of the deceased and urged their families to find strength in the face of their irreplaceable loss.
He also called on relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and to implement measures aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.
While mourning the victims, Soludo commended the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the Lagos State Fire Service and other emergency responders for what he described as their tireless efforts to rescue victims and contain the fire.
He further advised Anambra residents living in Lagos and other parts of the country to always prioritise personal safety and the preservation of life over the recovery of property in the event of fire outbreaks.
