The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has confirmed the death of four staff members in Tuesday’s fire outbreak at Afriland Towers, Broad Street, Lagos.
The incident, which occurred on the sixth and seventh floors of the building housing the Medium Tax Audit Office and the Onikan Emerging Tax Office, has plunged the FIRS community into mourning.
In a condolence message posted on its official X handle on Wednesday, the agency said its security and safety team immediately alerted the fire service, but thick smoke had already engulfed the building before emergency responders arrived.
“The Management and staff of FIRS are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of four of our colleagues in the fire incident. We honour the memory of our departed colleagues whose professionalism and dedication were exemplary,” the statement read.
The service assured that it is in close contact with the families of the deceased and will provide full support during this difficult time. It also disclosed plans to review and strengthen safety measures across all its offices nationwide to prevent a recurrence.
On Tuesday, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that nine people were rescued from the building, with five successfully resuscitated, while several others escaped unhurt.
ADEOLA KUNLE
