Business mogul, Tony Elumelu
Chairman of Afriland Properties Plc and Heirs Holdings, Tony Elumelu, has expressed profound sorrow over the devastating fire at Afriland Towers in Lagos on Tuesday, which claimed the lives of several employees.
In a heartfelt statement verified by the media relations unit and shared with newsmen on Wednesday, Elumelu described the incident as a profound tragedy.
“I am shattered by Tuesday’s incident at Afriland Towers which claimed the lives of our colleagues,” he said, underscoring the irreplaceable loss to their families, friends, and coworkers.
“Tuesday was a stark reminder of what truly matters: our irreplaceable people who walk through our doors each day and share our mission.”
Elumelu, who was en route to the United States for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) when he learned of the tragedy, announced, “I have cut short my trip to return to Lagos as a mark of respect to our lost colleagues.”
He urged support for those receiving medical care and revealed plans for a memorial to honor the deceased and assist their grieving families.
Elumelu also extended gratitude to emergency responders, first aid workers, and members of the public for their bravery and compassion during the crisis.
In a related development, the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) issued a statement on Wednesday mourning the loss of four staff members who perished in the fire while working on the sixth and seventh floors of Afriland Towers.
Dare Adekanmbi, Special Adviser on Media to FIRS Chairman Zacch Adedeji, identified the victims as Assistant Directors Mrs. Ekelikhostse George and Mr. David Sunday-Jatto, Senior Manager Mrs. Nkem Onyemelukwe, and Manager Mr. Peter Ifaranmaye.
“It is with a heavy heart that FIRS announces the loss of four staff members during the Afriland Towers fire on Tuesday,” Adekanmbi stated, noting that thick smoke was already billowing when fire services arrived despite swift action by FIRS Security and Safety officials.
Adekanmbi expressed the deep grief of FIRS management and staff, stating, “We are in deep shock and extend condolences to the families and friends of the deceased.”
He praised the professionalism and dedication of the late colleagues and affirmed FIRS’s commitment to supporting their families and grieving coworkers.
“We are working with relevant agencies in Lagos to establish the root cause of the incident while reviewing safety measures across all FIRS offices nationwide,” he added.
In a separate address on Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu extended his condolences to the victims’ families and commended the swift response of emergency services, reinforcing the government’s commitment to ensuring workplace safety and supporting affected communities.
The combined efforts of Elumelu, FIRS, and national leadership reflect a unified resolve to honor the fallen and prevent future tragedies.
