A devastating fire broke out at the Gombe Media Corporation (GMC) on Saturday at about 3:50pm, affecting several parts of the premises. The fire destroyed the corporation’s old television studio, maintenance section, radio library, News Director’s office, and the hostel accommodation for National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving with GMC Radio and Television. Fortunately, no life was lost in the incident, although some individuals sustained minor injuries while trying to salvage their belongings and assist in the emergency response.
The Director-General of GMC, Malam Ibrahim Isa, was at the scene alongside the Director-General of Press Affairs to the Gombe State Government, Isma’ila Uba Misilli, staff of the corporation, sympathisers, and other members of the public. They witnessed the efforts of the state and federal fire services personnel as they battled to bring the fire under control. The prompt response of the fire services helped to prevent the spread of the fire to other parts of the corporation.
Some NYSC members serving with GMC, including Farida Tahir, Esther Daniel, and Nasiru Joshua, lost valuable personal belongings in the fire, including laptops, sewing machines, and important credentials. The affected members were among those who had been accommodated in the hostel that was destroyed in the fire. They expressed their disappointment and frustration at the loss of their personal belongings.
A television cameraman and News Department artist with GMC, Irmiya Maiguwa, sustained minor injuries while assisting in efforts to contain the fire and protect property. The injured staff member was among those who had been actively involved in the emergency response efforts. Fortunately, the injuries sustained were minor, and the staff member is expected to recover soon.
The Director-General of GMC, Malam Ibrahim Isa, described the incident as unfortunate, expressing gratitude to God that no life was lost. He also commended the efforts of the fire services personnel and other stakeholders who responded promptly to the incident. Isa assured the affected staff and NYSC members of the corporation’s support in rebuilding and replacing the destroyed property.
The affected staff members and NYSC members have appealed for improved fire safety arrangements and adequate emergency response facilities within the corporation to safeguard lives and property. They emphasised the need for regular fire drills and training to prepare staff for emergency situations. The corporation has been urged to take proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Gombe Media Corporation has not provided an official estimate of the damage caused by the fire, but the incident is expected to have a significant impact on the corporation’s operations. The corporation is likely to face challenges in the coming days as it seeks to restore its facilities and services. The incident has also highlighted the importance of fire safety and emergency preparedness in the workplace.
Key points
- No life was lost in the fire incident, but several staff members and NYSC members lost personal belongings.
- The fire destroyed several parts of the Gombe Media Corporation’s premises, including the old television studio and hostel accommodation.
- The affected staff members and NYSC members have appealed for improved fire safety arrangements and adequate emergency response facilities within the corporation.
