Anambra State has witnessed a series of fire incidents occurring in various parts of the state within a span of just one week. These incidents come amidst the gradual onset of the rainy season in the state and other regions of the country.
The first fire incident took place around 1 pm on Saturday, March 2, at the Dubis Hotel and Suites (formerly known as Wigo Hotel) in Ukpomili, Ifitedunu, Dunukofia Local Government Area of the State. Situated along the Awka-Onitsha Old Road and in close proximity to a petrol filling station, the fire outbreak, attributed to a power surge, reportedly affected only the CCTV Control Room of the hotel. However, prompt response from the Anambra State Fire Service prevented further damage, saving the main hotel buildings and nearby structures, including the filling station.
The second fire outbreak occurred behind the Anambra State Secretariat Complex in Awka, the state capital, at about 9:27 pm on Tuesday, March 5. This incident was caused by a bush fire ignited by unidentified persons who left it unattended after starting it. The fire had already begun to spread towards a part of the Secretariat fence before being brought under control by the Fire Service, preventing its entry into the Secretariat Complex. Firefighters managed to extinguish the blaze, eventually leaving the scene at approximately 10:15 pm.
Subsequently, two days later, another significant fire outbreak ravaged a private radio station in the state. Kpakpando FM, located at Mbaukwu in Awka South Local Government Area, was severely affected by the fire, which erupted around 9:30 pm on Thursday, March 8. While the office building sustained damage and some studio equipment were partially burnt, swift intervention by the Fire Service saved other parts of the station’s premises.
Fortunately, there were no casualties reported in any of these incidents. However, the cause of the fire at Kpakpando FM is yet to be determined.
Addressing these fire incidents, Engr. Martin Agbili, the Anambra State Fire Chief, emphasized the importance of caution and proactive measures among residents to minimize the alarming rate of fire incidents in the state. He advised residents to switch off electrical appliances when not in use and cautioned against careless bush burning, particularly when left unattended. Agbili also stressed the need for fire extinguishers to be readily available in every household, office, and market as part of fire safety measures.
While commending the efforts of firefighters and individuals who assist during fire emergencies, Agbili urged timely notification of the Fire Service in case of any fire emergency for prompt response and intervention. He emphasized that the response time depends on the timing of notification, urging residents to contact the Fire Service promptly to effectively mitigate fire incidents.