Abia lawmaker calls for fire service outstation in constituency as inferno destroys petrol station

The Member representing Umuahia North constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Anderson Akaliro, has appealed to the Abia State government to establish a functional fire service outstation in his Ohuhu constituency.

His appeal followed the recent fire outbreak that destroyed a petrol station at Nkwoegwu, Ohuhu, when a petrol tanker exploded inside the facility while discharging its contents.

In a motion of Urgent Public Importance during plenary, the Lawmaker noted that the devastating effects of the incident make it necessary that a fire service outstation should be established in the area to meet with the growing population of humans and commercial establishments.

Akaliro, however, thanked the  Abia State Fire Service, whose timely intervention saved adjourning buildings from being consumed by fire.

He also called for the provision of modern firefighting equipment, emergency vehicles, and adequate personnel to enhance disaster management and public safety within Umuahia North and adjoining communities.

Following extensive deliberations, the Abia State House of Assembly, unanimously adopted the motion, with the members acknowledging the strategic importance of strengthening emergency response mechanisms across the State.

In a related development, Abia State government has said it would establish a functional fire station within the Abia State University Uturu, to swiftly respond to any fire incident or other emergencies and protect students and staff of the institution from harm.

The plan was announced by the Senior Special Assistant to Abia State Governor on Homeland Security, Fire and Medical Emergencies, Chukwunenye Alajemba, when he led a team from his office to the Vice Chancellor of Abia State University, Professor Ndukwe Okeudo.