The House of Representatives has issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Jaji Abdulganiyu, to appear before its investigative panel and explain the circumstances surrounding a fire truck accident that tragically claimed the lives of three siblings and injured others at ECOWAS Junction, Wuse 2, Abuja.
The summons followed the Controller-General’s failure to honour a prior invitation. Speaking on the matter, Minority Whip Hon. Ali Isah criticized the Fire Service for not issuing a timely public statement, despite widespread social media circulation of videos from the scene.
In response, the House has directed the Federal Fire Service to:
- Visit and offer condolences to the bereaved families,
- Cover all medical bills for hospitalized victims,
- Provide adequate compensation, and
- Implement stronger safety protocols to prevent future tragedies.
Appearing before the panel, Deputy Controller-General Samuel Olumode, representing the Service, expressed deep regret and confirmed that the incident occurred during an emergency response. He said the driver, fearing mob attack, did not stop at the scene but later reported to the police and remains in custody.
Mr. Olumode also clarified that:
- The Controller-General personally visited the affected families and the injured,
- Fire Service officials attended the funeral and burial rites,
- A public apology was issued and broadcast by national media.
The tragic incident occurred last Friday evening, during a firefighting operation at Avenue Plaza, Banex, Abuja.
