Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed deep sympathy with victims of a recent surge in fire outbreaks across Nigeria, describing the incidents as a national emergency that demands urgent reforms in fire safety and emergency response systems.
In a statement posted on his X handle on Saturday, Obi lamented the devastating fire at the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building in Balogun, Lagos, which claimed lives and left several families grieving. He described the incident as a painful reminder of the country’s fragile emergency response infrastructure.
Obi also referenced multiple fire outbreaks recorded across the country in recent days, including incidents at Haiba Plaza in Malumfashi, Katsina State; Kure Market in Minna, Niger State; and a warehouse in Gusau, Zamfara State. He noted that these came shortly after earlier fires at Buzaye Garage in Sokoto, Terminus Market in Plateau State, and Sabuwar Lale Furniture Market in Kano.
Adding to the growing list of tragedies, Obi highlighted the latest fire outbreak at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital’s College of Nursing Sciences hostel, as well as repeated fires in Lagos communities such as Arena Market, Ikotun, and Bolade in Oshodi.
“These incidents point to a critical situation that calls for collective action and reform,” Obi said, stressing that Nigeria’s system for handling emergencies remains grossly inadequate.
He argued that as a nation that collects various taxes and emergency-related funds, Nigeria has a responsibility to ensure that its fire services are properly equipped, professional, and responsive. According to him, there is an urgent need to build a functional national emergency response framework, particularly in markets, public institutions, and high-rise buildings where risks are often highest.
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Obi extended solidarity to victims and affected communities in Katsina, Niger, Zamfara, Sokoto, Plateau, Kano, and Lagos, assuring them they are not alone in their loss. He also called on the government to act swiftly in supporting affected families and providing resources to help them recover.
“May we honour those we have lost by committing to a future where lives are protected,” he said, urging authorities to use the tragedies as a catalyst for transforming Nigeria’s emergency services into systems that are both competent and compassionate.
He concluded by reiterating his vision for national renewal, saying the country can still work towards “a New Nigeria that is possible, where safety and support are priorities for all.”