FOSAD urges Sanwo-Olu to intensify rescue efforts for three brothers trapped in Great Nigeria House Fire

Michael Olumide

Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) has issued an urgent appeal to the Lagos State Government to intensify rescue operations following the tragic fire at the Great Nigeria House, a 22-storey commercial complex on Lagos Island, which broke out on December 24, 2025.

In a statement signed by Signed:
President, Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD), Dr. Stephen Nwala, and
Secretary General, Dr. Uzor Ngoladi, stated that the three brothers from Uzoakwa community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State, Mr. Stephen Onyeka Omatu, Mr. Casmir Nnabuike Omatu, and Mr. Kenechukwu Collins Omatu, are currently feared trapped inside the building.

The Omatu brothers, young entrepreneurs who relocated to Lagos in search of legitimate livelihoods, operate a trading business, Mr. Classic Wholesale and Retail Limited, dealing in male and female shoes, bags, and clothing, within the Great Nigeria House complex.

The incident has plunged their family, community members, and business associates into deep anguish as information about their safety remains unclear.

The height and structural complexity of the building, coupled with the intensity of the fire, have heightened concerns about the brothers’ well-being, with every passing hour intensifying the uncertainty and fear surrounding their fate.

FOSAD commended the Lagos State Government, emergency responders, firefighters, and security agencies for their efforts in containing the blaze and preventing further escalation.

Nevertheless, the organisation urged authorities to accelerate and expand the ongoing search and rescue operations to ensure that no life is left unaccounted for.

FOSAD specifically called on His Excellency, Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, to personally intervene by deploying additional emergency resources, advanced rescue equipment, structural assessment experts, and specialised urban search and rescue teams to conduct a comprehensive operation within the affected building.

“Every hour is critical, and every possible measure must be taken to locate and rescue those who may still be trapped,” the statement read.

The forum highlighted the broader implications of the incident, noting that the Omatu brothers are representative of thousands of South-East youths who contribute to Lagos’ economic vibrancy while pursuing peaceful enterprise.

FOSAD stressed that protecting the lives of hardworking Nigerians should be an urgent priority for all levels of government.

Additionally, the organisation urged authorities to maintain timely and compassionate communication with the families of the missing persons. Accurate updates, transparent victim identification, and provision of psychosocial support were recommended as essential components of the emergency response.

As an advocacy body committed to human dignity, social justice, and national cohesion, FOSAD expressed solidarity with the Omatu family, the people of Uzoakwa in Ihiala, and all those affected by the fire.

The forum concluded by appealing that no effort be spared in the rescue mission, while reaffirming trust in the Lagos State Government to act decisively in this humanitarian crisis.