The Federal Fire Service (FFS) has contained a midnight fire outbreak at De Bently Hotel in the Utako area of Abuja, preventing the blaze from spreading to nearby buildings.
The incident occurred in a four-storey commercial building occupying an estimated 500 square metres, raising concerns among residents and business operators in the area before emergency responders brought the situation under control.
In a statement issued by the National Public Relations Officer and Head of Corporate Services of the Service, Paul Abraham, firefighters from the Wuse Fire Station were immediately deployed after the distress call was received.
“Personnel from Wuse Fire Station were immediately mobilised and arrived at the scene to commence firefighting operations under the command of the Controller General,” the statement said.
The Controller General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Adeyemi, personally led the emergency response team during the operation.
According to the statement, firefighters successfully contained the flames through coordinated suppression efforts involving multiple water jets, firefighting appliances and tenders, preventing the blaze from spreading to neighbouring properties.
Preliminary findings indicate that the fire may have been triggered by a gas explosion, although authorities say the exact cause has not yet been conclusively determined.
The Service disclosed that the total estimated value of property within the facility is about ₦1 billion.
“Out of this amount, about ₦650 million worth of property was successfully saved, while approximately ₦350 million was affected by the fire,” the statement added.
Fortunately, the incident did not result in any casualties.
“No casualties, injuries, or loss of life were recorded during the incident,” the Service confirmed.
Police patrol teams and additional firefighting units also provided security and operational support during the emergency response.
Adeyemi commended the swift and professional conduct of the firefighters, noting that their rapid intervention prevented what could have been a more devastating disaster.
“Their prompt response helped prevent the incident from escalating into a more devastating situation,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Federal Fire Service has deployed a team of investigators to determine both the immediate and remote causes of the fire.
The agency also urged hotel operators, business owners and the public to strictly comply with fire safety regulations, particularly in the handling and storage of gas cylinders and other combustible materials.
It further emphasised the importance of promptly reporting fire outbreaks to emergency authorities to minimise damage and safeguard lives and property.
