Tragedy struck on Broad Street, Lagos Island, as the fire outbreak at Afriland Towers claimed more lives than initially reported. At least 10 people have now been confirmed dead, with staff from both United Capital Plc and the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) among the victims.
Newsonspot reports that United Capital, which occupies the 3rd and 4th floors of the six-storey commercial building, announced on Thursday that six of its employees lost their lives in the inferno. In a statement, the financial and investment services firm expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the deceased as “an integral part of our company and family.”
“Our departed colleagues leave behind an immeasurable void,” the company said, adding that preparations are underway for a memorial service in their honour.
Read This: FIRS Mourns Four Staff Lost In Lagos Afriland Towers Fire…
Similarly, the FIRS confirmed the death of four of its senior staff members who were trapped on duty on the 6th and 7th floors of the building. 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).
“It is with a heavy heart that FIRS announces the tragic loss of four of its staff members during the fire incident,” the agency said in a statement signed by its Chairman’s media aide, Dare Adekanmbi.
Eyewitnesses recounted how thick smoke spread rapidly through the building, trapping many workers before emergency responders arrived. The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service confirmed that nine people were rescued, with five revived, while others managed to escape unhurt.
The FIRS noted that it is working with emergency agencies to determine the cause of the fire, while also pledging to support bereaved families and strengthen safety standards across its offices nationwide.
Both institutions – United Capital and FIRS – have been plunged into deep mourning as they come to terms with the devastating loss of colleagues in one of Lagos’s worst recent fire tragedies.
