The Cross River State Government has commenced the compilation of comprehensive data on victims of recent fire outbreaks across the state, as part of measures to provide relief and targeted assistance, even as it strongly condemned the attack on firefighters and fire service equipment during a recent inferno in Calabar.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Ekpenyong Akiba (Esq), disclosed this while responding to growing public concerns over recurring fire incidents in Calabar metropolis and other parts of the state.
Akiba assured that the administration of Governor Bassey Otu remains deeply concerned about residents affected by disasters, but emphasised that government intervention must be driven by accurate and verified data to ensure fairness and effectiveness.
He explained that a multi-agency disaster management framework has been activated, bringing together the Fire Service, Ministry of Humanitarian Services, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), the Red Cross, Police, Civil Defence Corps, Ministry of Health and other relevant stakeholders to assess losses and coordinate response efforts.
“His Excellency is conscious of the plight of victims of recent fire incidents. Data is currently being gathered across the state to ensure that any form of assistance is equitable and properly targeted,” Akiba said, adding that the exercise would cover all three senatorial districts and not be limited to Calabar metropolis.
While assuring victims of government support, Akiba condemned the reported attack on firefighters and a fire truck during one of the recent incidents, describing the act as unfortunate, counterproductive and self-defeating.
“Attacking firefighters who came to save lives and property is unacceptable. It discourages emergency responders and ultimately harms the same communities affected by disasters,” he stated.
Addressing concerns over delayed response in some fire incidents, Akiba attributed the challenge largely to communication gaps rather than the absence of equipment or personnel. He maintained that the state has functional fire trucks, water supply, firefighting chemicals and trained personnel, although more resources are required to further strengthen the service.
He noted that the Otu administration inherited a largely neglected fire service sector but has since embarked on extensive renovation of fire service facilities and the procurement of modern equipment, including new fire trucks, as part of broader reforms in the state’s security and emergency response architecture.
Akiba also stressed the need for improved public enlightenment and the establishment of a dedicated emergency distress call line to enable residents promptly alert fire service authorities during emergencies.
Reiterating the government’s zero tolerance for violence, he urged youths and residents to remain calm and cooperative during emergencies, warning that the destruction of public assets would only set the state back and divert scarce resources meant for development and disaster response.
He assured that the Cross River State Government would continue to prioritise the protection of lives and property, while strengthening disaster response mechanisms and providing necessary support to victims of fire outbreaks across the state.
Kingsley Agim
