Fire incidents were recorded in six states across Nigeria on New Year’s Day, according to the Federal Fire Service.The affected states were the Federal Capital Territory, Lagos, Imo, Gombe, Kwara and Bayelsa. In a statement issued on Thursday, the Federal Fire Service spokesperson, Paul Abraham, said that a fire broke out at Cake Hot Restaurant, located in River Plate Park, Wuse, Abuja, shortly after midnight.
He explained that firefighters, working alongside the FCT Fire Service, quickly contained the fire, preventing it from escalating into a major disaster in the busy recreational area. Property valued at about ₦1.5 billion was saved, while losses were estimated at ₦500 million. According to the statement, firefighters were mobilised at about 12:23 a.m. on January 1 and arrived promptly at the scene. Although a section of the garden was affected, no lives were lost and no injuries were recorded. Preliminary findings linked the incident to objects thrown during New Year celebrations, reinforcing warnings against the use of fireworks. Abraham said firefighters also responded to several incidents in Lagos, Imo, Gombe and Kwara states, successfully preventing further escalation and limiting property damage.
In Bayelsa State, however, a fatal incident was recorded in Yenagoa, where a residential fire claimed the life of an 11-year-old child. He said property worth about ₦10 million was saved, while losses were estimated at ₦20 million. Preliminary investigations indicated that the fire was caused by a candle left unattended.
The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Adeyemi, expressed sympathy to victims of the incidents and urged Nigerians to strictly observe fire safety measures, especially during the harmattan season. He advised residents to switch off and unplug electrical appliances when not in use, avoid fireworks and open flames indoors, and report fire outbreaks promptly.
Adeyemi noted that while fires can break out within seconds, many incidents are preventable through vigilance and basic safety practices. He added that the nationwide response by firefighters underscored the service’s commitment to readiness and public safety at the start of the new year. The Punch also reported that a directive by the Controller General, Olumode Adeyemi, barring firefighters from proceeding on holiday or leave during the festive period, ensured that personnel were readily available to respond swiftly to multiple emergencies.
Source: https://punchng.com/
