A group promoting unity, peace and progress in Okigwe LGA known as ‘Okigwe Patriots’ has appealed for the intervention of the Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma following the fire incident that destroyed shops and goods worth hundreds of millions of naira at the Eke Okigwe Market on June 30, 2026.
In an open letter signed by the Administrator, Hon. Elder Ndubueze Nwokoro and six others, and addressed to the governor, the group drew the attention of the state government to the need for an urgent rehabilitation of the fire service station in the are With the title: “RE: Appeal For The Rehabilitation Of The Service Station And The Strengthening Of Fire Emergency Response In Okigwe.”
The letter read: “On behalf of the Okigwe Patriots, we respectfully write to draw Your Excellency’s attention to the urgent need for the rehabilitation and proper equipping of the Fire Service Station in Okigwe.
“The current state of the Fire Service Station us a source of great concern to our people.
“The station building has deteriorated significantly and requires urgent renovation to provide a conducive and functional environment for officers carrying out the critical responsibility of protecting lives and property.
“The station also lacks a reliable source of water, making the construction of a borehole essential for effective firefighting operations.
“In addition, the absence of a functional firefighting vehicle has greatly limited the capacity of the station to respond promptly to fire emergencies within Okigwe and its surrounding communities.
“This situation poses a serious threat to public safety and economic activities in the area.
“Our concern has been further heightened by the devastating fire outbreak that engulfed the Eke Okigwe Market on 30th June, 2026, destroying shops, goods, and the means of livelihood of many hardworking traders.
“This unfortunate incident underscored the urgent need for a fully equipped and operational fire service station capable of responding swiftly to emergencies and minimizing the loss of lives and property.
“In light of the forgoing, we humbly appeal to Your Excellency to graciously approve:
“The immediate renovation and rehabilitation of the Okigwe Fire Service Station building.
“The construction of a borehole to provide a reliable water supply for firefighting operations.
“The provision of a functional firefighting vehicle and other essential firefighting equipment to improve emergency response in Okigwe.
“We firmly believe that addressing these critical needs will greatly enhance public safety, protect businesses and investments, and reassure residents that the Government of Imo State remains committed to their welfare and security.
“Your Excellency’s administration has continued to demonstrate commitment to the development and well-being of the people of Imo State.
“We are confident that this sincere appeal will receive your compassionate and urgent consideration.
“We thank Your Excellency for your attention and look forward to your favourable response.
“Please accept the assurances of our highest regards, the letter concluded.
Others who signed the document included: Hon. Santos Onwukaike (Ikenga Okigwe), Hon. Chief Clinton Ashagwara, Engr. Henry Nwachi, Nzeribe Stanley Nzeribe, Hon. Chinonso Obioha and Chief Chigozie Okororie.
Meanwhile, reactions from residents of the area have included calls on the state government to come to the assistance of Imo residents who suffered the loss of their livelihoods as a result of the market fire incident.
