Two separate fire incidents on Wednesday left devastating impacts in Niger and Cross River States, destroying property worth millions of naira but sparing human lives.
In Bida, Niger State, a privately owned medical facility, Azman Hospital, was completely razed in the early hours of the day, sending panic across Chaniyan community.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in Niger, SP Wasiu Abiodun, attributed the fire to a suspected power surge.
“At about 2 AM, there was a fire incident at Azman Hospital, Bida. It was reported that when electricity was restored in the area, there was an upsurge, which led to the fire in the hospital.
“The entire hospital was burnt, but no life was lost during the incident. However, further investigation is ongoing,” he stated.
Meanwhile, in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, five houses were razed in the Agbokim Waterfall community, following a fire outbreak allegedly caused by petrol spillage.
An eyewitness, Thomas Akam, said, “The fire originated from a leak in a petrol jerrycan stored inside one of the buildings. The petrol spill ignited after coming into contact with an open flame near the premises, sparking the devastating fire.
“This tragedy affected the entire community deeply. Among the victims was the residence of the Etung Council Vice Chairman, Hon. Assam Amba. Thankfully, no lives were lost, but the destruction was terrible.”
Akam added that the absence of fire service personnel at the initial stage worsened the damage.
However, the State Fire Service Director, Dennis Ajom, explained that their team mobilised swiftly upon receiving information.
“Our team was quick to mobilise upon being informed. We are currently compiling a full report on the incident,” he said.
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