BENIN CITY: The Edo State Emergency Management Agency (EdoSEMA) on Wednesday night led a coordinated emergency response to a fire outbreak at the Oba Market, Benin City, successfully containing the inferno without any loss of life.
The Executive Secretary of EdoSEMA, Hon. Jerry Idahosa, who was at the scene, said the agency received distress calls around 8:15 p.m. and immediately activated the State and Federal Fire Services.
He said the Secretary to the State Government and the Chief of Staff were informed of the situation and swiftly contacted the Commissioner of Police, who deployed security personnel to maintain order and assist in emergency operations.
Also present at the scene were the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, who supervised medical preparedness, and officials from the Ministry of Public Security and Safety, who deployed an Emergency Medical Services bus in case of casualties.
The Director General of the Edo State Fire Service, Hon. Anthony Ojo, and the Chairman of Oredo Local Government, Engr. Gabriel Iduseri, joined the operation, providing oversight during the firefighting and recovery efforts.
Through the prompt and collaborative response of all agencies, the fire was contained before spreading to nearby stalls.
The cause of the outbreak remains under investigation.
EdoSEMA said it would deploy its assessment team for an on-the-spot evaluation to determine the extent of damage and provide necessary intervention.
Hon. Idahosa commended the swift action of all agencies involved, noting that their teamwork reflected the state’s growing capacity for disaster management and public safety.
