By Stella Agbeyeke
SAPELE/Nigeria: Traders and residents in Sapele Local Government Area have commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori following the swift response of the Delta State Fire Service to a fire outbreak at Decima Road in the Sapele Main Market, which was successfully contained before causing widespread destruction.
The commendation comes after firefighters from the Sapele Station acted promptly to the emergency, saving goods worth millions of naira and preventing what could have escalated into a devastating market inferno.
The fire, which occurred yesterday, could have resulted in significant damage and loss if not for the rapid intervention of the fire service team.
Eyewitness accounts highlighted the efficiency and professionalism of the firefighters, who contained the blaze and prevented it from spreading. In light of this incident, traders have taken to social media and local gatherings to voice their appreciation for the governor’s efforts in enhancing firefighting capabilities across the state.
The reporting officer, Delta State Fire Service Command, Sapele Station, Chief Superintendent Tamigbe Francis, said the incident was triggered by a careless resident who was cooking behind a shop. He noted that the inferno had threatened to engulf a chain of storefronts stocked with valuables and food items, including bags of rice.
Upon receiving the distress call, the fire service, led by the Director of the Delta State Fire Service Command, Dr. Eugene Oziwelle, responded within minutes. Their swift intervention proved crucial in containing the blaze before it could spread further and cause extensive destruction of property.
Dr. Oziwelle emphasized the importance of public vigilance, urging traders to adhere strictly to fire safety regulations, particularly when using open flames in commercial areas. “We commend the traders for their cooperation today, but we also want to remind everyone of the importance of fire safety. A moment of caution can prevent a disaster,” he said.
Eyewitnesses at the market applauded the rapid response, attributing the success to recent investments in firefighting infrastructure by the state government under Governor Oborevwori. Many noted that the quick intervention prevented what could have been a major disaster with far-reaching economic consequences.
A market vendor, who spoke anonymously, expressed gratitude, saying, “We are thankful to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for equipping and supporting the fire service and ensuring they are always ready to respond. Today’s incident could have been catastrophic, but their prompt action saved our businesses.”
The community, including traders and residents, said the timely response not only averted significant losses but also reinforced confidence in the state’s emergency response system.
