FIRS Confirms Death of Four Staff in Afriland Towers Fire Tragedy

LAGOS | September 18, 2025 — The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) is mourning the loss of four of its staff members who died in a devastating fire that broke out on Tuesday at Afriland Towers, located on Broad Street in Lagos.

According to an official statement released by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, the victims were identified as Mrs. Ekelikhostse George (Assistant Director), Mr. David Sunday-Jatto (Assistant Director), Mrs. Nkem Onyemelukwe (Senior Manager), and Mr. Peter Ifaranmaye (Manager).

The fire reportedly affected the sixth and seventh floors of the high-rise building, which houses the agency’s Medium Tax Audit Office and the Onikan Emerging Tax Office.

“It is with a heavy heart that FIRS announces the tragic loss of four of its staff members during the fire incident at Afriland Towers,” the statement read.

FIRS stated that its internal security and safety personnel promptly contacted the fire service upon detecting the fire, but by the time emergency responders arrived, thick smoke had already overwhelmed parts of the building.

The agency expressed deep sorrow over the incident and confirmed that it has reached out to the families of the deceased, assuring them of full support during this difficult time.

“We are working in collaboration with all relevant agencies in Lagos to get to the root cause of the unfortunate incident. While this is ongoing, we will also be reviewing safety measures across FIRS offices nationwide — whether rented or owned,” the agency added.

Investigations into the cause of the fire are currently underway.