There was pandemonium on Saturday following a fire outbreak at one of the offices of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) in Abuja.
Videos circulating on social media showed flames engulfing parts of the building, causing panic in the surrounding area.
In a statement signed by Sikiru Akinola, technical assistant (print media) to the FIRS executive chairman, the agency confirmed that the incident took place at its office located at No. 15 Sokode Crescent, Wuse Zone 5.
“The fire, which broke out on the fourth floor of the building, was promptly responded to by our security personnel on duty,” the statement said.
“With the swift support of the Federal Capital Territory Fire Service and other emergency responders, the fire was successfully contained and prevented from spreading further.”
The agency expressed relief that no lives were lost in the incident, though it noted that several offices on the affected floor sustained damage.
“An investigation into the cause of the fire has commenced, with preliminary assessments pointing to a possible electrical fault,” the statement added.
“In the meantime, all internal safety protocols are being thoroughly reviewed and strengthened to mitigate against future occurrences.”
The incident comes months after a deadly fire in September at Afriland Towers, located on Broad Street, Lagos, where four FIRS staff members lost their lives. The victims were identified as Ekelikhostse George, assistant director; David Sunday-Jatto, assistant director; Nkem Onyemelukwe, senior manager; and Peter Ifaranmaye, manager.