FIRS Confirms Four Staff Deaths in Devastating Afriland Towers Fire in Lagos

Tragic Fire Claims Lives at Afriland Towers

A devastating fire outbreak at Afriland Towers on Broad Street, Lagos Island, on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, has resulted in the confirmed deaths of four staff members of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). The incident, which saw thick smoke engulfing the high-rise building, also led to the loss of six employees from United Capital Plc, bringing the total number of fatalities to 10, as confirmed by the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service.

Identities of Deceased FIRS Officials Revealed

The Federal Inland Revenue Service expressed profound grief over the loss and identified its deceased staff members. They are:

• Mrs. Ekelikhostse George (Assistant Director)
• Mr. David Sunday-Jatto (Assistant Director)
• Mrs. Nkem Onyemelukwe (Senior Manager)
• Mr. Peter Ifaranmaye (Manager)

These officials were reportedly working on the sixth and seventh floors of the building, where the FIRS's Medium Tax Audit and Onikan Emerging Tax Office are located, when the tragedy occurred.

Incident Details and Emergency Response

Eyewitnesses reported that the fire originated in the inverter room in the basement of Afriland Towers. The blaze quickly spread, with smoke rapidly permeating multiple floors and trapping occupants. Videos from the scene depicted frantic individuals attempting to escape, while emergency responders, including the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Federal Fire Service, and other agencies, mobilized to the site. Rescue operations successfully saved at least nine persons from the building.

Official Reactions and Ongoing Investigations

The FIRS, through a statement by Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to the FIRS Chairman, conveyed its deep shock and sorrow, stating, '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 agency has pledged to provide necessary support to the families of the deceased and is collaborating with relevant Lagos agencies to ascertain the root cause of the incident. Furthermore, FIRS announced a review of safety measures across all its offices nationwide.

United Capital Plc also confirmed the loss of six of its staff members, describing them as 'an integral part' of their company. Chairman of Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu, whose companies occupy parts of the building, expressed his devastation, stating, 'I am shattered by yesterday's devastating incident at Afriland Towers, that took the lives of our dear colleagues.' President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government have also extended their condolences to the victims' families and affected organizations, urging vigilance and thorough investigation to prevent future occurrences.