Chairman of the United Bank for Africa, Tony Elumelu, has suspended his annual TOE All-White Party in memory of the six employees who lost their lives in the September fire at Afriland Towers in Lagos.
The devastating incident, which occurred at the high-rise building on Broad Street, claimed multiple lives and sent shockwaves through the business community.
In a message shared on his Instagram story on Tuesday, Elumelu said he and his wife, Dr Awele Elumelu, reached the difficult decision to cancel this year’s December 23 event.
He noted that the moment demands sobriety and empathy rather than celebration.
Elumelu explained that the family will use the period to honour the victims of the tragedy.
“We’ve received countless messages about our annual TOE All-White Party scheduled for December 23. Your enthusiasm means a great deal to us. But following the recent fire incident that claimed precious lives, Awele and I have decided to cancel the party this year. This season will be devoted to remembering and honouring those we lost. They remain forever in our hearts,” he wrote.
He added that the traditional gathering would resume on December 23, 2026, expressing appreciation for the public’s understanding and extending Christmas wishes to friends and well-wishers.