By The daily Torch media
Six staff members of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) have been confirmed dead following Tuesday’s fire outbreak at Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos.
Confirming the incident on Wednesday, Dare Adekanmbi, media aide to FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji, said the victims were on duty at the agency’s sixth and seventh-floor offices when the fire occurred.
“The management and entire staff are in deep shock and sorrow over the development,” the statement read.
“We offer our condolences to the grieving families and will provide all necessary support during this difficult time.”
The deceased staff members were identified as:
– Ekelikhostse George, Assistant Director
– David Sunday-Jatto, Assistant Director
– Nkem Onyemelukwe, Senior Manager
– Peter Ifaranmaye, Manager
The fire, which reportedly started in the inverter room located in the basement, quickly spread through the building, trapping several workers on upper floors.
Witnesses said security personnel raised the alarm and contacted emergency responders, but the fire had already escalated before firefighters could bring it under control.
FIRS stated that it has begun consultations with the families of the deceased and pledged to review safety protocols across all its offices nationwide.
The incident, which also affected the adjacent UBA building, has plunged the tax agency into mourning and once again highlighted the urgent need for stricter workplace safety enforcement in Lagos.
