Following an attack on its personnel at the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) Estate in Lugbe, Abuja, the Controller of the Federal Fire Service (FFS), Ibrahim Liman has warned that the agency would no longer condone assault on its personnel or facilities.
A crew of the agency who were responding to a distress call at Lugbe were attacked by hoodlums on arrival at the scene of the fire incident.
A statement signed in Abuja by the Public Relations Officer of the agency, Mrs Ugo Huan, described as unfortunate the incident which took place on Sunday at about 17:55 pm as the hoodlums damaged the fire truck that was at the scene.
The statement said the incident has since been reported to the Police for investigation and prosecution of those involved in the act.
But responding, the FFS boss wondered why individuals will want to destroy fire trucks which were procured for the purpose of putting out fire and ensuring the safety of lives and property.
Liman warned that people should stop attacking Firemen or fire trucks at fire scene, saying the time of their response is determined by the time they are called.
He also advised Nigerians to have the Fire Service emergency number nearest to them and also call in good time.
“While condemning the attack in very strong terms, warned that henceforth no attacks and assault on its personnel or facilities will be tolerated.
“He charged all community leaders to warn their subjects on the attack on Firemen which is becoming a trend, because the Service will not hesitate to stop its Men from responding to fire incidences in places that are known for attacking Firemen as the safety of Men of the Service as well as equipments is paramount.
“He therefore warned that henceforth individuals with the habit of always attacking Firemen at fire scene should desist or be ready to face the full wrath of the law, as the Federal Fire Service will ensure the prosecution of such individuals.
“Furthermore he advised motorists to give way to Fire Trucks when they hear the siren, as obstruction of the truck is also been responsible for the delay in getting to fire scene.
“The Federal Fire Service is doing its best in ensuring the safety of lives and property with the available manpower and equipments and we will continue to do so as we also call on all Nigerians who are also stakeholders to support us,” the statement said.
