NEWS
No Fatalities Damage as Fire Guts CBN Makurdi Branch
From David Torough, Makurdi
The Makurdi branch of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), in the early hours of yesterday was gutted by fire.
Those, who thronged the premises, including newsmen were denied access into the facility by security personnel.
The fire incident, which started around 7:AM, was quickly put off by men of the Federal Fire Service, who were alerted by security men on duty.
A source told DAILY ASSET that the fire started from the power section of the Bank, and did not affect other sections, saying that the fire could be a result of technical fault.
“The fire started from the power house and the security quickly called the fire fighters who came and put it off, it does not escalate to the main building,” the source said.
Staff of the Bank were seen discussing the incident at the time of filling this report.
The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) headquarter in Abuja, later issued a statement, saying, there were no fatalities in the fire incident, which started from the fuel dump behind the branch building.
The statement, which was signed by the CBN Director of Corporate Communication, Osita Nwanisobi, added that the prompt response of Bank’s security and facility management units, as well as support from the Benue State Fire Service helped fight the fire and prevented any damage the fire might have caused to the main office building.
“Fortunately, there were no fatalities and the affected site has been condoned off for further investigation. Normal work has also continued at the branch,” the statement added.
In an interview, the Director General, Benue Fire Service, Engr. Ikyaaza Donald explains: “I was not there anyway but from the information I have gathered, some called me that there was fire at the central bank so I quickly called my fire men. They came and quenched the fire but what I have gathered from the people in the central bank is that they told me that there was an explosion and nothing more than that.
“They came out and saw how it happened, it was a terrible one, in fact, there was a very serious fire and they had to put it off. When I got there, the tank was buried under the ground, the tank that stores diesel. To my thinking, it is the accumulated pressure in the tank that caused the explosion, probably the vent that supposed to ease the pressure was blocked somewhere along the pipe.
“Otherwise it is supposed to be releasing the pressure once in awhile otherwise if the pressure is too much, it explodes the tank. That is what I think caused the explosion otherwise tank can’t just explode like that, so there is built-up pressure inside the tank. He said.
On the allegation that it was the generator that caused the fire, that Director said, “it was not the generator, it was not near where the money was stored, it was just the area where they buried the tank under the ground. You know they buried the tank in the ground and put slaps on top, so when the explosion happened, it exploded and opened but it was just within the tank. All our fire vehicles were on ground”.
He appreciated Governor Samuel Ortom for providing fire fighting equipments for the service.
“We thank his Excellency for this work because if he is not doing it well, we wouldn’t have quenched this fire, all our vehicles were there before we were able to put off the fire, it was a very serious fight, it was a very tensed fire, it was not just an ordinary one,” he said
Engr. Ikyaaza advised people to always seek professional advice before carrying a project.
“Just as our custom, when we finish a project, we don’t care to go back to do some necessary inspections and repairs. If you are installing a tank in the ground, there is usually a vent/place where you release the pressure, so, if you observed that the pressure is not released, if there is a built up pressure, it is dangerous. Once in a while, inspect and make that you release the pressure from the tank because major explosion that happen sometimes is the built up pressure within if it is not released can cause serious explosion so people should learn to invite professionals to save cost,” he said.
When contacted, Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, SP. Sewuese Anene said that the command received information about the incident from policemen on duty at the bank and swiftly deployed additional team to the scene to ensure orderliness, while fire fighters did their job.
The Speaker of Delta House of Assembly, Mr Dennis Guwor has urged Christians to imbibe the true spirit of Christmas celebration.
Guwor, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Nkem Nwaeke, on Wednesday in Asaba, reminded Christians that love, kindness and generosity remained the key elements of the Christmas celebration.
He reiterated the need for people to continue to support one another, uplift those in need, and strive for a more united and prosperous state .
Guwor, who is also the National Treasurer, Conference of Speakers of State Houses of Assembly in Nigeria, said he was proud of the progress that Delta had made as a state.
”I look forward to the dawn of a new year with great hopes and more positive vibes in Delta.
“I pray that this festive season brings to the state and its people peace, love, and happiness, ” he said.
According to him, we have worked tirelessly to build a brighter future for our state, and I am confident that our collective efforts will continue to yield positive results.
Guwor expressed confidence that the ‘MORE Agenda’ of Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori would continue to impact positively in the life of the people of the state..(NAN)
By Laide Akinboade, Abuja
Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), had urged Nigerians to use this Christmas celebration to continue to up to Jesus for hope for a better Nigeria
This was contained in a statement issued by CAN , signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh
President, CAN, and made available to journalists in Abuja.
The Archbishop extends his warm Christmas greetings to all Nigerians.
The statement reads, “Christmas is a time of joy and togetherness, celebrating God’s greatest gift to mankind, Jesus Christ, our Saviour and the Light of the World. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, we are called to reflect on His values and teachings, which provide hope, peace, and guidance, especially during challenging times.
“This Christmas comes with a mix of joy and sorrow for many Nigerians. The recent stampedes at charity events in Abuja and Anambra, where innocent lives were lost, have left us grieving as a nation. These heartbreaking incidents highlight the growing desperation among our people and the erosion of societal values such as patience, orderliness, and respect for one another. For those grieving or injured, I urge you to find strength in the love of Jesus Christ, whose birth we celebrate. He is the source of our comfort and peace in times of sorrow and our guide to a brighter future.
“The philanthropists involved in these events have, for many years, brought relief and joy to the less privileged during Christmas. Their intentions were noble, and their generosity is commendable and should not be discouraged in any way. However, this year’s tragedies remind us that as a society, we must revisit the values that bind us together. Nigerians must learn to embody Christlike virtues, such as patience, empathy, discipline, and dignity, particularly in times of collective need. It is only by returning to these values that we can prevent such unfortunate occurrences in the future.
“These incidents also highlight the urgent need for our government to prioritise food security. The desperation we witnessed reflects the harsh realities many Nigerians face daily. Jesus Christ, during His ministry, not only fed multitudes with compassion but also called for fairness and justice in meeting the needs of others. Our leaders must remain resolute in the fight against hunger and take decisive steps to ensure that no Nigerian is left hungry or in need. Strengthening the agricultural sector, reducing food prices, and addressing inequality must be at the forefront of governance.
“As we commemorate the birth of Christ, let this Christmas inspire us to be agents of change in our society. Citizens must commit to fostering peace and orderliness in their communities. Leaders must act with compassion and wisdom to create a nation where every individual’s basic needs are met. And as individuals, let us strive to live out the teachings of Jesus by showing love, patience, and care to those around us.
“May this Christmas remind us that Jesus Christ is the foundation of hope and order, and may His light guide us in building a united and prosperous Nigeria. Together, as we look to Him, we can overcome our challenges and usher in a brighter future for all.
“May the joy, peace, and hope of Christmas fill your hearts and homes. Merry Christmas!”.
The Directorate of Road Transport Services (DRTS) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has warned motorists against speeding.
DRTS Director, Abdulateef Bello, gave the warning in an interview on Wednesday in Abuja.
He spoke against the backdrop of the ongoing road construction projects in the territory.
According to the DRTS boss, road accidents associated with speeding, drunkenness and other vices are common during the Yuletide.
He noted that the Christmas and New Year holidays had often led to influx of visitors from other states.
Bello warned that it was important for such persons to drive with extreme caution as they might not be familiar with the FCT.
“There are no excuses for driving with expired drivers licence or none at all, overloading and use of rickety vehicles that could be harmful to passengers,” he said.
Bello added that operatives of the directorate had commenced road surveillance within the territory to ensure safety compliance by motorists.(NAN)
Delta Speaker urges Christians to Imbibe True Spirit of Christmas
ShareThe Speaker of Delta House of Assembly, Mr Dennis Guwor has urged Christians to imbibe the true spirit of Christmas...
Christmas: Let’s Look to Jesus for Hope and a Better Nigeria – CAN
ShareBy Laide Akinboade, Abuja Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), had urged Nigerians to use this Christmas celebration to continue to...
Road Construction: DRTS Cautions FCT Motorists Against Speeding
Share The Directorate of Road Transport Services (DRTS) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has warned motorists against speeding. DRTS...
Christmas: I’m Optimistic of Nigeria’s Future – Omo-Agege
ShareThe former Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege says he is optimistic about the future of Nigeria as he extends warm...
Yuletide: Be Safety Cautious While Cooking- Former Fire Boss
ShareDr Ibrahim Liman, Former Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, has urged Nigerians to be safety cautious while cooking during...
2025 Hajj Operation: NAHCON Gets Acting Secretary
ShareProf. Saleh Usman, the executive Chairman, National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), has approved the appointment of Alhaji Alidu Shutti...
Adamawa NUJ Lauds Gov. Fintiri’s Achievements, Appreciates Members
Share The Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Adamawa Council on Wednesday lauded Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri’s achievements, acknowledging his welfare packages...
NNPCL Unveils Production Monitoring Centre
ShareThe Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), has introduced the Production Monitoring Command Centre (PMCC) as a transformative step...
Security Operatives Destroy Camp of Criminal Gang in Anambra
Share The police in Anambra and some security operatives have destroyed a camp suspected to be the abode of criminals...
Gov. Sani Commissions 12 Roads in Kaduna
ShareGov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has inaugurated 12 newly constructed asphalt roads within Kaduna metropolis. Report says that the...