Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Polaris Bank has dismissed as false and misleading widespread social media reports claiming that more than 34 persons died in a fire incident at its Broad Street branch on Lagos Island, confirming that no casualties or injuries were recorded and that the blaze was swiftly contained by emergency responders. The bank issued the clarification in a statement on Thursday, June 18, 2026, following a fire outbreak at its 17-storey building located at 61/65 Broad Street, Lagos Island, which triggered panic among workers, residents, and business operators in the busy commercial hub.
The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, in a separate statement, confirmed that the incident was reported at approximately 11:33 a.m. and involved a stationary saloon car parked on the third floor of the building, which serves as a parking facility. According to the Controller‑General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, firefighters from the Ebute Elefun and Sari Iganmu Fire Stations promptly responded to the emergency and swiftly contained the fire, preventing it from spreading to other vehicles and sections of the building. “The only damage recorded was to the affected vehicle and its immediate surroundings. No casualties or injuries were reported,” Adeseye stated. She added that the firefighting operation was successfully concluded, and normalcy had been fully restored to the area.
In a statement posted on its official X handle on Thursday, Polaris Bank said: “A fire incident occurred today at the car park of our Broad Street Branch, Lagos, originating from a customer’s vehicle parked on the 3rd‑floor car park. The fire was swiftly contained following the activation of our emergency response procedures and the prompt intervention of firefighters”. The bank further clarified: “We confirm that there were no casualties or fatalities. Reports claiming that over 34 persons were feared dead are false and misleading. Investigations into the incident are ongoing”. The bank commended emergency responders, staff, customers, and stakeholders for their support and urged the public to rely only on credible news platforms and its official channels for accurate information.
Videos shared on social media captured thick plumes of smoke billowing from the structure as onlookers gathered at the scene. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service noted that the fire, which started on the third floor of the 17-storey building, was contained without escalating into a major disaster. Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the fire, and investigations are ongoing. The prompt response of emergency services and the activation of the bank’s emergency protocols ensured that the incident was brought under control without loss of life or significant damage.
The incident has renewed concerns about the spread of unverified information on social media, with both Polaris Bank and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service emphasising the importance of relying on official channels for accurate information. As investigations continue, the bank has reassured customers and the public of its commitment to safety and transparency.
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