FIRS has confirmed the death of four staff in Afriland Towers Fire Tragedy.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has confirmed the death of four of its employees in the fire outbreak that engulfed Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos, on Tuesday.
FIRS, which occupies the sixth and seventh floors of the building housing its Medium Tax Audit and Onikan Emerging Tax Office described the incident as a devastating loss to the organization.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the agency said its Security and Safety officials promptly alerted the Lagos State Fire Service when the fire broke out, but thick smoke had already engulfed the affected floors before emergency responders arrived.
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“The Management and staff of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of four of our colleagues in the fire incident at Afriland Towers. This unfortunate event has thrown the entire FIRS family into mourning,” the statement read.
The agency extended condolences to the families of the deceased, commending their professionalism and service, while assuring that it would provide full support to the bereaved families during this difficult period.
FIRS further disclosed that it has begun reviewing and strengthening safety measures across all its offices nationwide to prevent similar tragedies.
How the Fire Started
According to the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service (LSFRS), the blaze originated from the inverter room in the basement of the six-storey Afriland Towers. The fire quickly spread, filling several floors with heavy smoke and forcing occupants to scramble for safety.
Eyewitnesses recounted chaotic scenes as workers and visitors jumped from windows onto makeshift cushions, while others climbed down with ladders held by volunteers.
Prominent businessman Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings and United Bank for Africa (UBA), also confirmed that colleagues from his group were among those who lost their lives, describing the tragedy as “devastating” and pledging support for affected families.
Safety Concerns Raised
The incident has triggered public concern about safety standards in high-rise commercial buildings across Lagos. Experts and observers cited inadequate fire exits, lack of hydrants, and poor emergency preparedness as critical risks that need urgent government and corporate attention.
Afriland Towers, which also houses several businesses including a UBA branch, remains sealed off as authorities continue investigations into the cause and extent of the damage.
