The Director of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS), Margaret Adeseye, confirmed that the fire at Christ Embassy Church in Oregun, Ikeja, Lagos, has been successfully contained.
The blaze, which erupted earlier on Sunday, prompted an immediate response from the fire service.
The Fire Service Officials were actively engaged at the site. In a subsequent statement, Adeseye provided detailed updates, assuring the public that no casualties had been recorded.
“At 07:27 hours, a fire outbreak was reported at the Christ Embassy Church located on Billings Way, Ikeja,” Adeseye stated. “Firefighting units from Alausa and Ikeja fire stations were promptly dispatched and arrived at the scene by 07:36 hours.
The church auditorium was found to be engulfed in flames. The fire is currently under control.”
Efforts to extinguish the fire included the strategic demolition of certain sections of the building. This approach, facilitated by the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), involved the use of an excavator to prevent the fire from reigniting and to avert further structural damage.
Adeseye added, “In addition, LASEMA’s excavator is being used to pull down some parts of the building to ensure complete extinguishment and to prevent further structural collapse. The cause of the fire has not yet been determined, and investigations are underway to ascertain its origin. No casualties have been reported at this time. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available.”
The fire incident has drawn attention from the highest levels of the church leadership. Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, President and Founder of LoveWorld Incorporated, also known as Christ Embassy, addressed the situation. He described the fire not as a misfortune but as an opportunity for growth and improvement, indicating a positive outlook on the aftermath of the incident.
The swift action of the LSFRS and their collaboration with other emergency response teams has been crucial in managing the situation and preventing further harm. As investigations continue, the community and church members remain hopeful for a clear understanding of the fire’s cause and the path forward.
This incident underscores the importance of emergency preparedness and rapid response in mitigating the impacts of such unforeseen events.
The Christ Embassy community, while shaken, is already looking ahead with a resilient spirit, guided by their faith and leadership.
