The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) deeply mourns the passing of Mrs. Ndidi Osaemedike-Okeke, who tragically lost her life in the ill-fated fire outbreak at Afriland Tower, Broad Street, Lagos, on 16th September 2025. Until her passing, Mrs. Osaemedike-Okeke was a staff of United Capital.

She was the beloved wife of our learned colleague and partner in the struggle for justice and equity, Mr. Collins Okeke of Hurilaws and Olisa Agbakoba Legal. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mr. Okeke, his family, friends, and associates during this period of immeasurable grief. The loss was sudden, devastating, and deeply painful.

Beyond her career, Mrs. Osaemedike-Okeke will be remembered for her warm heart, compassion, kindness, and strength. She consistently went above and beyond to support others, embodying values that made her a source of light and encouragement to all who knew her.

CHRICED also commiserates with the families of other vibrant Nigerians who lost their lives in this tragic and undeserving incident. These deaths, which could have been avoided, raise serious concerns about Nigeria’s failure to enforce safety standards in public and private workplaces. The absence of effective safety protocols and rapid evacuation measures continues to put the lives of citizens at risk.

As we mourn, CHRICED urges the authorities to enforce occupational health and safety standards to guarantee safe workplaces for all Nigerians. Protecting lives and dignity must become a national priority.

May the soul of Mrs. Ndidi Osaemedike-Okeke and those of all the victims of the Afriland Tower fire rest in perfect peace.

Signed:
Dr. Zikirullahi M. Ibrahim
Executive Director, CHRICED