A fire incident on Wednesday briefly disrupted activities at the National Assembly complex in Abuja after flames engulfed part of the wing housing the Nigerian Senate, triggering swift emergency response efforts by lawmakers and staff.
Key Highlights
- Fire breaks out at the Senate wing of the National Assembly in Abuja.
- Incident occurred at Hearing Room 107 shortly after an NDDC screening exercise.
- Preliminary reports indicate the fire started in the kitchen compartment.
- Faulty or unattended microwave suspected as possible cause.
- Senators Asuquo Ekpenyong and Salihu Mustapha helped contain the fire.
- No casualties or injuries recorded.
- Fire brought under control before spreading to other sections of the building.
The incident reportedly occurred shortly after the Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) concluded the screening of Dr. Zainab Marwa, a nominee representing the North-East geopolitical zone on the commission’s board.
According to preliminary reports, the fire originated from the kitchen section of Hearing Room 107, located within the Senate wing of the National Assembly complex.
Sources familiar with the incident suggested that the fire may have been triggered by a microwave oven that was left switched on after use.
Swift Response Prevents Major Damage
Witnesses said the flames were quickly noticed, prompting an immediate response from individuals within the vicinity.
Senators Asuquo Ekpenyong and Salihu Mustapha were among those who reportedly took swift action to contain the fire before the arrival of additional emergency responders.
Their intervention, alongside efforts by support staff and safety personnel, helped prevent the blaze from spreading to adjoining offices and hearing rooms.
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No Casualties Recorded
Officials confirmed that the fire was successfully brought under control within a short period, limiting the extent of damage to the affected section of the building.
No deaths, injuries, or casualties were recorded during the incident.
The prompt response also ensured that activities within other parts of the National Assembly complex continued with minimal disruption.
Investigation Expected
Although the exact cause of the fire has yet to be officially confirmed, preliminary findings point to an electrical appliance within the kitchen area as the likely source.
Relevant authorities are expected to conduct a detailed assessment to determine the cause of the incident and recommend measures to prevent future occurrences.
The incident has renewed discussions about fire safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and emergency preparedness within public institutions and government facilities.
