Fire Outbreak: FEMA Boss Vows to Close Non-compliant Filling Stations in Abuja

By Lawan Bukar Maigana

The Director General of the FCT Emergency Management Agency, FEMA, Alhaji Abbas Idris, has vowed to close filling stations that do not comply with the regulations on content discharge 1in Abuqja, following a fire outbreak at Conoil on Saturday.

This was contained in a statement released by the agency’s Head of Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa, on Sunday evening.

Idris said that the FCT had three outbreaks at different filling stations in two weeks, saying: “ no life was lost to the inferno. However, vehicles parked within the premises were burnt together with a tanker that was discharging fuel. And no estimate of loss is done yet.”

He blamed the owners of the filling stations for the inferno, accusing them of flouting the rules and regulations on content discharge, which consequently led to the destruction of properties.

The affected filling stations include AA Rano at Mpape Junction along Kubwa Express Way, Danmarna at FHA Lugbe, and Conoil at Area 10 Garki, adding that the lingering fuel scarcity that compels most stations to commence selling immediately after tankers arrive has also contributed to the problem.

He said, “we will start discussing with the relevant NNPC Dept, Security Agencies, and other relevant Stakeholders to see how we can strengthen the regulations and ensure full compliance with the laws and regulations for the safety of lives and properties.”

He called on owners of filling stations across the FCT to adhere to the regulations on fuel discharge and install adequate fire defense mechanisms and trained personnel to handle emergencies.