Families, friends and members of the Catholic community will on Wednesday, January 7, 2026, gather in Lagos for a Service of Songs and Requiem Mass in honour of three brothers who tragically lost their lives in the Balogun Market fire incident.
The deceased: Stephen Onyeka Omatu, popularly known as Mr Classic, Mr Casmir Nnabuịke Omatu, and Mr Collins Kenechukwu Omatu, reportedly died in the devastating fire that gutted the Great Nigeria Insurance building in Balogun Market, Lagos, on December 24, 2025.
According to the announcement, the solemn mass will take place at Jesus The Saviour Catholic Church, located on Ken Nlemendim Street, Bucknor, Ejigbo, Lagos, and is scheduled to begin at 5:00 p.m.
The flyer, jointly endorsed by the church and family representatives, invites the public to join in prayers for the repose of the souls of the deceased, describing them as “beloved sons” whose sudden deaths have left their family and community in deep grief.
The Service of Songs and Requiem Mass will be officiated under the supervision of Rev. Fr. Joseph Ozo’ Nwokeforo, Parish Priest, alongside Rev. Fr. William Omatu, brother to the deceased, with Sir John Mokwunye, Vice Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Council, also listed as a signatory.
The Balogun Market fire, which occurred on Christmas Eve, claimed several lives and caused extensive damage to properties, once again raising concerns over fire safety measures in major commercial centres across Lagos.
The organisers concluded the announcement with prayers for eternal rest, stating: “May their gentle souls rest in peace. Amen.”