Tony Elumelu, Chairman of the United Bank for Africa, has called off his annual TOE All-White Party in memory of the six employees who lost their lives in the September fire at Afriland Towers, Lagos.
The blaze, which erupted in the high-rise building on Broad Street, resulted in multiple fatalities and deeply affected the business community.
In a message posted on his Instagram story on Tuesday, Elumelu revealed that he and his wife, Awele, made the “difficult decision” to cancel this year’s edition of the highly anticipated December 23 event.
He noted that the current moment requires “reflection and compassion,” stating that the period would be devoted to honouring those who died in the incident.
“We’ve received so many messages from friends asking about our annual TOE All-White Party on 23rd December. Your excitement and tradition mean the world to us.
“However, due to the recent tragic fire incident that claimed precious lives, Awele and I have made the decision to cancel the party this year. This season will be dedicated to remembering, honouring, and holding space for those we lost. They remain forever in our hearts.
“We look forward to opening our home to you again with love, laughter, and togetherness on 23rd December 2026 by God’s Grace. Until then, thank you for your understanding and kindness. Wishing you and your loved ones a peaceful and beautiful Christmas. Merry Christmas,” he wrote.
Elumelu, a billionaire entrepreneur, economist, and philanthropist, leads Heirs Holdings and Transcorp and is the founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation.
He was included in Time magazine’s 2020 list of the 100 most influential people in the world.
He has been married to Dr. Awele Vivian Elumelu since 1993, and they have seven children.
