A former Anambra State governor and LP presidential candidate in 2023 general elections, Peter Obi, has lamented the fire outbreaks recorded in markets across the country, charging the government to equip fire services with taxes collected from the citizens.

In a statement on Saturday, Mr Obi expressed heartfelt sympathy to those impacted by the recent surge of fire incidents across our country. 

Mr Obi said, “The devastating fire at the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building in Balogun, Lagos, which claimed precious lives and left families in mourning, serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for effective fire safety measures.”

Highlighting series of fire outbreaks in other markets across the country, Mr Obi Nigeria as a nation that collects taxes should equip fire services.

He urged the government to take swift action to support affected families and provide the necessary resources for recovery.

Mr Obi said, “As a nation that collects various taxes and emergency funds, we have an obligation to ensure that our fire services are equipped, professional, and responsive. It is imperative that we develop an effective national emergency response system, particularly in our markets and high-rise buildings, to safeguard lives and properties. “

The politician called for reforms to end the perennial fire outbreaks destroying people’s means of livelihood.

He added, “We witnessed damages at Haiba Plaza in Malumfashi, Kure Market in Minna, and the Gusau warehouse in Zamfara just yesterday, alongside earlier incidents at Buzaye Garage in Sokoto, Terminus Market in Plateau, and Sabuwar Lale Furniture Market in Kano.

“The latest outbreak at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital’s College of Nursing Sciences hostel this morning, as well as repeated fires in areas like Arena Market, Ikotun, and Bolade in Oshodi, highlight a critical situation that calls for collective action and reform.”