Back-to-Back Fire Outbreaks Rock Lagos Island, Millions Lost in Central Plaza Inferno
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
LAGOS – Reports confirm that a major fire broke out at Central Plaza, near Mandilas Market on Lagos Island, on Tuesday evening, September 16, 2025, sending shockwaves through the bustling commercial hub.
The incident occurred barely hours after another fire was reported at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, raising serious concerns about back-to-back fire outbreaks within the same locality on the same day.
Confusion Over Location Details
According to eyewitness accounts, the Central Plaza fire reportedly began around 7:40 p.m., but conflicting information has emerged. Some reports suggest the blaze may have started at Emab Plaza, a four-storey commercial building situated directly behind Mandilas on Taiwo Street, with initial claims putting the outbreak at 7:23 p.m.
This conflicting timeline has created uncertainty as to whether Central Plaza and Emab Plaza refer to the same structure or are closely adjoining buildings within the same commercial cluster.
Videos Capture Aftermath, Cause Still Unknown
Videos circulating on social media show the shocking aftermath of the inferno, with shops and offices completely gutted. Millions of naira worth of goods and properties have reportedly been destroyed, leaving many business owners devastated.
As of the time of this report, the cause of the fire remains unknown. However, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has confirmed that emergency responders were deployed to the scene to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby buildings.
Unusual Timing Raises Concerns
What has left many residents deeply unsettled is the timing of the incident. Fire outbreaks in Lagos are typically more common during the dry season, yet this tragedy occurred in the middle of the rainy season, prompting questions about what could have triggered the sudden blaze.
With two major fires breaking out in quick succession on the same day, traders, business owners, and residents are calling on authorities to investigate the root causes and put preventive measures in place to avert similar disasters.
Authorities Yet to Issue Full Statement
As of Wednesday morning, September 17, officials were still assessing the extent of the damage. A full statement from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA) is expected in the coming hours.
Meanwhile, affected traders and property owners have begun counting their losses as the commercial district recovers from yet another devastating fire outbreak.
For breaking updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Akahi News.
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