By Victoria Onehi
The Controller General, Federal Fire Service , Olumode Samuel Adeyemi, led a crew of firefighters to contain a midnight fire outbreak at De Bently Hotel, Utako, Abuja, successfully preventing the blaze from spreading and safeguarding surrounding properties.
The Service received a distress call at 20:28 hours, reporting a fire outbreak at the four-storey commercial building. Personnel from the Wuse Fire Station were immediately mobilised, turning out at 20:30 hours and arriving at the scene by 20:38 hours to commence firefighting operations under the command of the Controller General.
Upon arrival, firefighters observed flames affecting sections of the structure, which covers an estimated area of 500 square metres. The crew promptly deployed multiple jets of water and coordinated suppression efforts using several firefighting appliances and water tenders. Through the swift and professional response of the firefighters, the blaze was successfully brought under control, preventing it from spreading to adjoining structures.
Preliminary reports indicate that the suspected cause of the fire may be a gas explosion, though this has not been conclusively established.
According to initial assessments, the estimated value of property at the facility is about ₦1 billion, out of which ₦650 million worth of property was successfully saved, while approximately ₦350 million was affected by the fire. Fortunately, no casualties, injuries, or loss of life were recorded during the incident.
Several emergency responders, including police patrol teams and supporting firefighting units, were also present to provide security and operational support throughout the firefighting operation.
The Controller General, who was personally on ground at the fire scene, commended the prompt response and professionalism of the firemen, noting that their swift intervention helped prevent the incident from escalating into a more devastating situation.
In a statement signed by National PRO/ Head, Corporate Services Federal Fire Service, National Headquarters DCF Paul Abraham, the CGF disclosed that a team of fire investigators has been deployed to the scene to conduct a comprehensive investigation and ascertain both the remote and immediate causes of the fire.
The Federal Fire Service urges hotel operators, businesses, and members of the public to adhere strictly to fire safety regulations, particularly regarding the safe handling and storage of gas cylinders and other combustible materials.
The Service also reiterates the importance of early emergency reporting to enable prompt response and minimize damage during fire incidents.
