Senators Avert Fire Disaster at National Assembly After Screening Session

A potential fire disaster was averted at the National Assembly complex on Tuesday after lawmakers swiftly contained a fire outbreak in the Senate wing before it could spread to other sections of the building.

The incident occurred in the kitchen section of Hearing Room 107 shortly after the Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) concluded the screening of Dr. Zainab Marwa, nominee representing the North-East on the commission’s board.

The committee, chaired by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, had just wrapped up proceedings when smoke was noticed billowing from the hearing room, triggering concern among lawmakers, legislative aides and support staff present at the venue.

Eyewitnesses said Senator Ekpenyong, alongside Senator Salihu Mustapha, immediately sprang into action and coordinated efforts to contain the fire before it could escalate into a larger emergency.

Their prompt intervention reportedly prevented the flames from spreading to adjoining offices and facilities within the Senate complex.

Preliminary findings indicated that the fire originated from a microwave oven that had been left switched on in the kitchen area attached to the hearing room.

The quick response of the lawmakers and supporting staff ensured that the blaze was extinguished within minutes, preventing damage to critical infrastructure and avoiding disruption to legislative activities.

No injuries or casualties were recorded during the incident.

Officials said normal activities resumed shortly after the situation was brought under control.

The incident nevertheless raised fresh concerns about safety protocols and the management of electrical appliances within public institutions, particularly in facilities that host high-profile government activities.

While the fire was successfully contained, sources within the National Assembly noted that routine safety assessments may be reviewed to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The National Assembly complex hosts dozens of committee sessions, legislative meetings and public hearings daily, making safety preparedness a critical component of its operations.

Tuesday’s swift response by lawmakers and staff ensured that what could have developed into a significant fire incident was brought under control before causing damage or disrupting proceedings.