FIRS Confirms Death Of Four Senior Staff In Lagos Fire Incident

The Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS, has been thrown into mourning following the death of four senior staff members in the fire outbreak that engulfed Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos, on Tuesday.

The victims, who were on duty at the agency’s offices located on the sixth and seventh floors of the high-rise, were trapped when the blaze spread through the building.

In a statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, the deceased officials were named as Mrs Ekelikhostse George, Assistant Director; Mr David Sunday-Jatto, Assistant Director; Mrs Nkem Onyemelukwe, Senior Manager; and Mr Peter Ifaranmaye, Manager.

“It is with profound sorrow that the Federal Inland Revenue Service announces the tragic loss of four of its dedicated staff in the fire incident at Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos,” the statement read in part.

It continued, “The Service occupies the sixth and seventh floors of the Towers, housing the Medium Tax Audit and Onikan Emerging Tax Office. Despite prompt action by our security and safety officials, who immediately contacted the fire service, the inferno spread quickly, leaving thick smoke that made rescue efforts difficult.”

The agency expressed deep grief over the tragedy, describing the deceased as exemplary professionals whose commitment to duty was unquestionable.

It also extended condolences to their families and pledged full support during this period of loss.

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“We are in close contact with the families of our departed colleagues and will stand by them in every way possible. At the same time, we are working with relevant authorities to determine the exact cause of this tragic incident. As part of precautionary measures, FIRS will review safety protocols across all its offices, both rented and owned, nationwide,” the statement added.

Emergency officials at the scene confirmed that investigations have commenced to ascertain the cause of the fire, which eyewitnesses described as fast-spreading and capable of trapping occupants on multiple floors.