The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is mourning the loss of four staff members who died in a fire incident at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos.
The fire, which occurred on Tuesday, affected the sixth and seventh floors of the building, where the FIRS Medium Tax Audit and Onikan Emerging Tax Office are located. FIRS said its security and safety officials promptly alerted the fire service, but by the time emergency responders arrived, thick smoke had already taken over the building.
The victims have been identified as Mrs Ekelikhostse George, Assistant Director; Mr David Sunday-Jatto, Assistant Director; Mrs Nkem Onyemelukwe, Senior Manager; and Mr Peter Ifaranmaye, Manager.
In a statement, the management and staff of FIRS expressed deep sorrow at the incident and sent condolences to the bereaved families. The agency said it would continue to provide every necessary support to the families of the deceased and honour their memory, describing their professionalism and dedication as exemplary.
FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji returned to Lagos from abroad after the incident and joined staff in observing a minute of silence in honour of the deceased. The agency also announced that it is reviewing and strengthening safety measures across all its offices nationwide, both rented and owned, to ensure the safety of its personnel.
Authorities in Lagos are working with FIRS to establish the cause of the fire.
