Traders operating in the bustling Balogun Market on Lagos Island are expressing deep frustration over the continued closure of their shops by the Lagos State Government. This action followed a devastating fire that broke out at the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building on December 24, 2025.
Safety Measures Leave Traders in Distress
The fire, which claimed eight lives, has not been fully extinguished despite the efforts of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service. In response, authorities have barricaded access roads and sealed hundreds of shops in the multibillion-naira commercial district, bringing business to a standstill.
During a visit to the market, shop owners were seen gathered in groups, discussing their bleak situation and mourning the dead. Martin Amalos, a children's wear trader, revealed his shop has been shut since December 25, 2025, crippling his ability to provide for his family. "I have spent all I had. The incident occurred during the peak of my business," he lamented.
Another trader, Oduloye Bimpe, criticized the government for sealing shops without offering any assistance. "I have children to care for. Where do we go from here? What do we do?" she asked. While understanding safety concerns, she argued the affected building should have been demolished by now.
Government Defends Actions, Prioritizes Life
Gbenga Omotosho, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, defended the government's decision, stating it was driven solely by public safety. He highlighted the extreme danger posed by the 25-storey GNI building, which risks collapse and could affect everyone within a 100-meter radius.
"I hope a time will come when our people will prioritise life over livelihood," Omotosho stated. He noted that more than ten buildings were damaged in the incident and reminded the public of reports of people who entered the burning building to retrieve goods and never returned.
Fabrics trader Maduabuchukwu Ifeakomili pleaded for the sealed sections of Balogun to be reopened, emphasizing traders' reliance on daily income. He also called on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to order the demolition of the damaged structure and revealed the personal toll: "I borrowed N12,000 yesterday to feed my family."
Soludo Mourns Anambra Sons Lost in Inferno
In a related development, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, expressed profound condolences over the fire incident. He specifically mourned the loss of three brothers from Anambra State: Stephen Onyeka Omatu, Casmir Nnabuike Omatu, and Collins Kenechukwu Omatu from the Uzoakwa Community in Ihiala.
In a statement, Soludo described the victims as "industrious young men" whose loss is a collective tragedy for the state. He commended the emergency responders from Lagos State while advising citizens to always prioritize human life over property during such disasters.
The governor called for a thorough investigation into the cause of the fire and urged authorities to implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
