Abakaliki – National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), on Thursday in Abakaliki distributed mattresses, rice, beans, maize, mosquito nets, blankets, soaps/detergents among others, to victims of disasters in Ebonyi.
Mr James Eze, South East Coordinator, (NEMA) who presided, urged landlords to insure their property against fire to prevent financial losses because no government has the resources to assist in every misfortune suffered by citizens.
“We also regret the inability of the state fire service to react promptly to the fire outbreaks which led to loss of property. “
“The state safety enforcement officers should ensure that safety standards are observed in all buildings in the state.’’
The coordinator urged individuals, companies and government to always adhere to safety standards to prevent fire-related disasters.
“They must ensure that house occupants have functional fire extinguishers and other safety devices’’, he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the beneficiaries included victims of fire outbreaks on Awolowo Street and Chief Liga’s Compound, Abakaliki, in which 64 rooms were destroyed.
The Federal Government Girls’ College Ezzamgbo, Ohaukwu Local Government Area of the state which experienced severe flooding, also benefited from the distribution.
Mr Ephraim Ononye, Chairman, State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), received the items from NEMA.
“We would ensure prompt distribution of the materials to the victims to alleviate their suffering.
“We would also enlighten the people on the need to maintain safety standards in their homes, offices and other places,’’ he said.
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Mrs Hannah Ifemelu, one of the beneficiaries, thanked NEMA for the gesture, adding that it would cushion the effects of her losses. (NAN)