Harmattan: KWHA alerts residents on fire outbreak precautions

By Mosunmola Ayobami, Ilorin

Lawmakers in the Kwara State House of Assembly (KWHA) have appealed to residents of Kwara State to adopt fire safety precautions during the harmattan season to prevent or minimize the loss of lives and property.

This appeal was made during Wednesday’s plenary session in a motion titled “The Need to Create Awareness on Fire Outbreak in Kwara State: KWHAM 29.” The motion, moved by Hon. Bello Yunusa Oniboki (Afon Constituency) and seconded by Hon. Yusuf Abdulwaheed Gbanga (Essa/Shawo/Igboidun Constituency), sought to address fire prevention measures as the harmattan season approaches.

Leading the debate, Hon. Oniboki emphasized that fire outbreaks are major disasters, often caused either naturally or through negligence, which leave devastating impacts on affected households and communities.

He noted that the changing weather conditions, characterized by dryness, cloudiness, and dust, signal the arrival of the harmattan season—a period when even minor negligence can result in fire disasters. He urged individuals and groups to remain vigilant in their households and workplaces to prevent fire outbreaks.

Citing findings, Hon. Oniboki explained that most fire incidents are linked to acts of negligence, such as bush burning, children playing with matches, failure to switch off electrical appliances, and power surges.

Hon. Oniboki also commended the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq CON, for his efforts to revamp the State Fire Service. He highlighted the recent renovation of the fire service office and the procurement of firefighting trucks, Hilux vans, and other modern firefighting equipment aimed at improving emergency response.

Other lawmakers contributing to the debate included Hon. Odetundun Olushola (Irepodun), Hon. Abdulraheem Medinat Motunrayo (Lanwa/Ejidongari), Hon. Ojo Olayiwola Ouebode (Oke-Ogun), Hon. Abdullahi Halidu Danbaba (Kaiama/Kemanji/Wajibe), Hon. Babatunde Ayi Olatundun (Ilorin North/West), Hon. Saba Yisa Gideon (Edu), and Hon. Owolabi Olatunde Razaq (Share/Oke-Ode).

The lawmakers collectively urged residents to adopt strict fire safety measures during the harmattan season. They called on individuals to avoid actions that could ignite fires, emphasizing the importance of caution to prevent disasters.

The Assembly further appealed to the Governor to decentralize the fire service by establishing more fire stations across the state’s three senatorial districts. This, they said, would enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of fire service delivery.

In addition, the House urged the Governor to direct the Ministry of Works and Transport to collaborate with the State Fire Service in intensifying public education and awareness campaigns on fire safety practices.

Finally, the Assembly commended Governor Abdulrazaq for his proactive steps in equipping the Kwara State Fire Service, which have significantly improved its capacity to respond swiftly to emergencies.