The State Controller and Chief Fire Officer of Abia State Fire Service, Arua Nnanna has expressed concern over incessant fire outbreaks in the State, saying that several properties were destroyed by the outbreaks.
Nnanna made the observations in Umuahia while reacting to the recent fire incident at Amuzukwu primary school in Umuahia, Nigeria Institute of International Languages Aba and Chisco motor park, also in Aba.
He said his office would enforce the installation of fire extinguishers in buildings, as directed by the State government.
He noted that the Abia State government led by Governor Alex Otti is interested in the safety of Abia citizens and other residents and therefore, would tackle anything that threatens the safety of the people.
He blamed the fire occurrences recorded in the State on high temperatures, storing of adulterated petroleum products and other inflammable substances, and interior electrical installations among others.
The Chief Fire Officer who said that his men responded to many distress calls to put off infernos, said that the fire prevention unit of his office would begin the enforcement installation of fire extinguishers and other prevention policies of the State government, as contained in extant government approvals.
Nnanna added that the administration of Governor Alex Otti has been providing the necessary equipment for his office to prevent and control fire in parts of the State.
More than 20 fire incidents have been recorded in parts of Umuahia and Aba between December 2023 and March 2024.
Among the areas gutted by fire in Aba was the Asa Nnentu auto parts market located in Ugwunagbo LGA.
Also, a section of popular Ariara market, Ahia Ohuru market at Ngwa road, Timber section of Ehere market, and Chisco park among others, were gutted by fire with cash and other property going up in flames.
In Umuahia, Ofeme Primary School, Amuzukwu Primary School, Shopping plaza at Aba road among other properties, also suffered fire disasters.
