By Solomon OKPO
Uyo, A recent independent survey has uncovered a shocking level of neglect in Akwa Ibom State’s fire service, with 98 percent of fire stations across the 31 local government areas reportedly in deplorable condition. The findings have sparked widespread concern and renewed calls for the state government to declare a state of emergency on fire safety.
According to the report, many of the so-called fire service offices across the state exist only in name. Most lack basic firefighting essentials such as functional fire trucks, water sources, modern communication equipment, and trained personnel. In some areas, the buildings themselves are derelict mere symbols of government presence rather than operational centers for public safety.
“The situation is alarming. Fire stations that should protect lives and property are practically abandoned. It’s a ticking time bomb,” the report stated.
Even more troubling is the revelation that firefighters continue to receive monthly salaries despite having no equipment or logistics to perform their duties. Observers describe this as an example of systemic inefficiency and waste of public resources.
“It makes no sense for the government to pay personnel who cannot respond to emergencies because they lack vehicles, water, or communication systems,” one analyst noted. “This is not just administrative negligence it’s a threat to public safety.”
Over the past few years, Akwa Ibom has witnessed multiple fire outbreaks in markets, residential areas, and public facilities, often with devastating consequences. Eyewitnesses recount incidents where fire service officers arrived hours late or not at all leaving residents to battle infernos with buckets of water and sand.
The human toll, observers warn, is immense. Entire families have lost homes and livelihoods, while traders continue to suffer crippling financial losses. “Fire safety is not a technical issue,” the report emphasized. “It is about human survival.”
Currently, the Akwa Ibom Fire Service operates under the Ministry of Works an arrangement critics describe as misplaced and counterproductive. The Ministry, primarily responsible for infrastructure and road construction, has been accused of neglecting the unique operational and policy demands of fire and safety management.
“This structure simply does not work,” the report asserted. “Fire services require specialized management, independent funding, and a focused policy direction.”
The report called on Governor Umo Eno to urgently declare a state of emergency in the fire service and undertake sweeping reforms, including:
Creating an independent Fire Service Commission or a Ministry of Fire and Safety Services;
Conducting a statewide audit of facilities and personnel;
Providing modern fire trucks and rehabilitating existing ones;
Re-equipping all fire stations with water reservoirs, power, and communication tools;
Recruiting and training new officers with proper welfare and insurance; and
Installing fire hydrants in urban centers and launching public fire safety awareness campaigns.
“The true test of governance is not only in building roads or cutting ribbons but in protecting lives,” the statement concluded. “Without a functional fire service, Akwa Ibom is sitting on a powder keg. If a major fire breaks out today, the consequences will be catastrophic both for the people and for public trust in government.”
As pressure mounts, many citizens are now urging the government to act swiftly, insisting that “never again should fire destroy our people because of negligence.”
