JUST-IN HON. AKALIRO SPONSORS MOTION FOR ESTABLISHMENT OF FIRE SERVICE OUTSTATION IN OHUHU
The Member representing Umuahia North (Ohuhu) State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Barr. Anderson Kelechi Akaliro, has sponsored a legislative proposal seeking the establishment of a Fire Service Outstation in Ohuhu, following the recent fire outbreak at Akagod Fuel Station, Nkwoegwu, Ohuhu.
The motion, which was presented as a Matter of Urgent Public Importance during plenary, was prompted by the devastating inferno that occurred when a petroleum tanker discharging its contents at the fuel station suddenly caught fire, posing a serious threat to lives and property within the area.
While presenting the proposal, Hon. Akaliro commended the prompt response and professionalism of the Abia State Fire Service, whose timely intervention prevented what could have escalated into a major disaster. He noted that the incident exposed the vulnerability of the Ohuhu axis and the larger Umuahia North constituency to fire emergencies due to the absence of a functional fire service outstation.
The lawmaker expressed concern over the rapid commercial growth of the area, the increasing population, and the proliferation of fuel stations and other business establishments, stressing that the establishment of a dedicated fire service outstation has become a necessity rather than a luxury.
As part of the motion, Hon. Akaliro urged the Executive Arm of Government, under the leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, to urgently establish a Fire Service Outstation in Ohuhu to provide rapid response to fire outbreaks and other emergency situations.
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 members acknowledging the strategic importance of strengthening emergency response mechanisms across the state.
The adoption of the motion marks a significant step towards the legislative process required for the establishment of the proposed outstation.
Hon. Akaliro maintained that the Akagod Fuel Station fire should serve as a wake-up call for proactive action, noting that although the disaster was effectively contained by firefighters, the state cannot afford to rely on chance in future emergencies.
He expressed optimism that the proposed Fire Service Outstation in Ohuhu would significantly improve response times, protect lives and property, and enhance public safety across Umuahia North (Ohuhu) state Constituency and neighbouring communities.
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