By Joy Yesufu
Four senior officials of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) died on Tuesday in a fire that swept through Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos.
The victims, who were on duty at the agency’s offices on the sixth and seventh floors of the high-rise, were trapped as the blaze spread and thick smoke filled the building.
In a statement, Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, 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.
“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.
The Service said its safety officials promptly alerted the fire service, but the intensity of the inferno and heavy smoke hampered rescue efforts.
It described the late officials as exemplary professionals and pledged full support to their families.
“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 responders confirmed that investigations have begun into the cause of the fire, which eyewitnesses said spread rapidly and trapped occupants on multiple floors.
