Federal Fire Service (FFS) officers who responded to the recent fire outbreaks in Lagos, Kwara and Plateau states will get automatic promotions for their efforts.
The acting Controller-General of FFS, Dr Karebo Pere Samson, made this known in a statement on Thursday by the spokesperson of the organisation, ACF Abraham Paul.
A commercial bus carrying petrol had exploded in Ilorin, Kwara State recently while in another incident in Plateau State, a couple were reportedly burnt to death as a result of an explosion from the storage of petrol in their apartment.
There was also a recent tanker explosion at a Mobil filling station in idi-oro Mushin Area of Lagos State.
The statement said Dr Karebo specifically commended the joint efforts of all emergency responders at the various scenes, most especially that of the Mobile Filling Station which was coordinated by the operatives of the FFS and the Lagos State Emergency response unit.
ACF Paul quoted the acting Controller-General as saying: “If not for the gallantry of these officers who took the hose to the fire at a very great risk to their own lives, there could have been a more disastrous outcome for the residents of the area and State at large”.
In a way of appreciation to their gallantry, the statement said Dr Karebo would be recommending to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Federal Fire and Immigration Services Board the immediate promotion of the officers to their next ranks.
The statement said this is to encourage them and others who put their lives on the line for the love of their country and humanity.
Dr Karebo, however, expressed disappointment over the attitude of some individuals handling petroleum products, making reference to an incident in Lagos State where a celebrant presented jerricans of petrol to guests at an event as souvenirs.
He said the action was in contravention to public safety.
Dr Karebo also cautioned Nigerians not to attack firefighters or cause any form of disruption to their lawful duties, appealing to members of the public, especially commuters, to always give the right of way to firefighters.
