The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has expressed dismay at the deplorable condition of fire stations in Imo in terms of equipment and personnel.
The Head, Imo/Abia Operations Office of NEMA, Mr Evans Ugoh, made the observation during an official visit to fire service out-stations across the state on Thursday.
Ugoh urged the state government to immediately address the situation to save lives and property in case of any fire outbreak.
While addressing some staff members of the fire station in Aboh/Mbaise in Imo, the NEMA boss described the station as a `toothless dog’ that could not do anything in time of danger.
“This fire station is a toothless bulldog because it lacks the capacity to fight fire in case of any outbreak, even the building is collapsing.
“The building has decayed, you lack the equipment and manpower personnel, so I don’t believe you can do anything in case of any fire outbreak.
Ugoh, who also visited Orlu and Okigwe fire stations, said the essence of the visit was to ascertain level of preparedness in case of any emergency.
He said some of the inadequacies in the fire stations across the state included insufficient personnel, lack of functional fire trucks and protective equipments.
While commending Imo government for the modern edifice built for the station at the state headquarters, he advised Gov. Rochas Okorocha to ensure that both the headquarters and out-stations be properly equipped. (NAN)
