The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has blamed Nigeria’s weak enforcement of workplace safety standards for the tragic fire outbreak at Afriland Tower, Broad Street, Lagos, which claimed the lives of several Nigerians, including Mrs. Ndidi Osaemedike-Okeke, on September 16, 2025.
By Chimezie Godfrey
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has blamed Nigeria’s weak enforcement of workplace safety standards for the tragic fire outbreak at Afriland Tower, Broad Street, Lagos, which claimed the lives of several Nigerians, including Mrs. Ndidi Osaemedike-Okeke, on September 16, 2025.
Mrs. Osaemedike-Okeke, a staff of United Capital and wife of human rights lawyer Mr. Collins Okeke of Hurilaws and Olisa Agbakoba Legal, was among those who could not escape the inferno.
In a strongly worded statement signed by its Executive Director, Dr. Zikirullahi M. Ibrahim, CHRICED said the tragedy was “avoidable and indefensible,” insisting that Nigeria’s failure to enforce occupational health and safety standards continues to cost innocent lives.
“These deaths, which could have been avoided, raise serious concerns about Nigeria’s consistent failure to enforce safety protocols. The absence of effective safety measures and rapid evacuation systems continues to put the lives of citizens at risk every day,” the group declared.
CHRICED warned that unless the authorities take urgent steps to compel both public and private organisations to comply with international safety benchmarks, the country will remain a graveyard of needless workplace deaths.
“As we mourn, we urge government agencies to rise up to their responsibilities. Protecting lives and dignity must become a national priority, not an afterthought,” Dr. Ibrahim stated.
While extending condolences to Mr. Okeke, his family, and others bereaved by the fire, CHRICED also paid tribute to the late Mrs. Osaemedike-Okeke, describing her as a compassionate and inspiring figure who always went above and beyond to support those around her.
The organisation prayed for the repose of her soul and those of all the victims of the Afriland Tower fire.