FIRS confirms 4 senior officers among victims of Afriland towers fire

The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has confirmed the death of four of its staff members in the fire incident that occurred on Tuesday at the six-storey Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos.

In a statement signed by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, the agency identified the deceased as Mrs. Ekelikhostse George (Assistant Director), Mr. David Sunday-Jatto (Assistant Director), Mrs. Nkem Onyemelukwe (Senior Manager), and Mr. Peter Ifaranmaye (Manager).

The statement explained that the victims were working at one of the two FIRS offices located on the sixth and seventh floors of Afriland Towers when the fire broke out. “It is with a heavy heart that FIRS announces the tragic loss of four of its staff members during the fire incident at Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos, on Tuesday,” the agency said.

FIRS noted that security and safety officials quickly mobilised and contacted the fire service, but by the time emergency responders arrived, thick dark smoke had already engulfed the building.

“The Management and entire staff are in deep shock and sorrow over the development. They offer their condolences to the grieving families and are in touch with the families of our departed colleagues whose commitment to excellence, dedication, and professionalism were never in doubt. We will provide all the necessary support at this trying time,” the statement read.

The agency further disclosed that it is working with relevant authorities in Lagos to ascertain the cause of the incident, while also reviewing safety measures across its offices nationwide.

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that nine people were rescued from the building. While five were revived, four others remained unconscious.