By Edeniyere Abraham Osose
The Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EdoSEMA) has carried out an on-the-spot assessment of three fire incidents in Benin City following distress calls from the affected areas. The assessment was led by the Agency’s Executive Secretary, Hon. Jerry Idahosa with the Operations Team, headed by Engineer Michael.
The first fire incident occurred at No. 20 Uselu, Lagos Road, destroying shops and goods worth millions of Naira. Addressing the victims, who were in tears as they recounted their ordeal, Hon. Idahosa empathized with them and urged them to remain calm. He assured them that the State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, is committed to securing lives and property.
“We are here to carry out an on-the-spot assessment of the fire incident that occurred here on Wednesday, the 12th of February, 2025. We received this call this morning, and we are here to assess the situation. From all we have gathered, we will prepare a report and submit it to His Excellency,” Hon. Idahosa stated.
He disclosed that the Team was acting on the Governor’s directive to assess the extent of the damage and provide necessary recommendations. He added, “By God’s grace, in due time, His Excellency will take action to relieve the pain, stress, and burden of every victim here. So, let us be assured that the Government is aware of what has happened. Let us remain calm and patient”.
Hon. Idahosa expressed gratitude that no life was lost in the fire incident and used the opportunity to sensitize the public on fire safety measures. He advised shop owners and residents to develop the habit of switching off electrical appliances when leaving their shops and homes.
Additionally, he urged the public to report emergencies promptly by calling the toll-free emergency number ‘739’; the EdoSEMA office lines: ‘08070419855’ or ‘08140848899’. “Always remember to call the emergency lines whenever there is an emergency. We are here to serve and protect,” he assured.
While conducting the assessment at Uselu, a distress call was received regarding another fire incident at Siluko Road, close to Chicken Republic. Upon arrival, it was discovered that the fire resulted from indiscriminate bush burning. Fortunately, the swift response of the Edo State and Federal Fire Service teams helped salvage the situation and prevented further destruction. He emphasized that their timely intervention was crucial in averting a more devastating outcome.
Hon. Idahosa commended the Edo State Fire Service and the Federal Fire Service for their prompt response. He called for stronger collaborations among all relevant agencies and stakeholders, stressing the need for a united approach to effective disaster management and prevention in the State. “Disasters can be better managed when all stakeholders work together. We must strengthen our synergy to safeguard lives and property more effectively,” he stated.
Shortly after, another fire outbreak was reported at the Obakhavbaye axis, making it the third incident assessed by EdoSEMA on same day. Hon. Idahosa was present at all three locations and reiterated the need for Edo residents to take preventive measures against fire outbreaks.
He appealed to the public to avoid activities that could trigger fires in their homes and business premises, emphasizing that EdoSEMA remains committed to safeguarding lives and property in the State.
Earlier, Mrs. Egheiro, who spoke on behalf of the victims, recounted her losses and appealed to the State Government and well-meaning individuals for support, saying, “I do sell here. I have been here for the past 27 years. I sell provisions, food items, and drinks. Tuesday night, I left here after 11 p.m. By 12 a.m., they called me that my store was burning. By the time I got here, everything had burnt down. I don’t know how it happened.”
The recent fire incidents have raised concerns over safety practices in the State, prompting calls for increased public awareness and stricter enforcement of fire safety regulations.
