By Adeyinka Adeniran
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin has described fire incidents as the one of the worst disasters that can happen to anyone and anywhere because of it’s devastating nature.
The Olubadan spoke through Senior Chief Rafiu Emiola Onideure, the Agba Akin Balogun of Ibadanland while playing host to the Executives members of the Fire Academy Nigeria who were on a royal courtesy visit to the Palace, Oke Aremo, Ibadan.
He said, “Of all the disasters known, fire incident is the worst as there is little or no remedy when it occurs. It consumes virtually every thing, human, houses, utilities and other properties you can think of.
“Unlike other disasters like flood, wind and the likes that could be curbed and their effects could be mitigated or salvaged but not fire. It destroys totally and absolutely most of the time.
“Your courtesy visit is crucial this time around when fire disasters are very rampant. I call on all royal fathers, markets management and the entire citizenry to lend their support to the mission of the Academy.”
The paramount ruler also enjoined the Fire Academy to embark on intensive public awareness and enlightenment campaign through the media, house to house, markets and other public places visitations.
Earlier in his address, the Director – General, Fire Academy Nigeria, Professor Afolalabi Israel explained that the Academy is a private organization in partnership with Federal and Oyo State fire services, National Orientation Agency (NOA ) and uniformed organizations among others.
According to Professor Charles, in order to prevent fire incidents, the Academy has set up Fire Wardens and Marshals to monitor the nook and crannies of the town specifically to ensure fire incidents are prevented and where it occurs it’s effects are reduced to the barest minimum.
The Director General used the occasion to announce the celebration of Fallen Fire Fighters Remembrance Day on May 4, 2025 at the House of Chiefs, Secretariat, Ibadan, where uniformed men and women, traditional rulers, political leaders, market men and women, religious leaders and community leaders will be in attendance.
