Outrage as Fire Service chief’s convoy to Kogi sparks public debate

Olumode

A grand motorcade escorting the Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Adeyemi, through his home state of Kogi has ignited widespread online debate over resource allocation in emergency services.

Video footage circulating on social media on Monday shows a convoy of FFS-red emergency vehicles, including Toyota pickups, SUVs, outrider motorcycles, support vans, and black SUVs, moving along highways and local roads.

The video also shows security men in dark suits and red ties guarding a red SUV as the convoy slows before arriving at a crowded event venue.

Another shot shows Adeyemi alighting from the SUV to a throng of cheering locals.

The event, described as a royal homecoming and thanksgiving, marks Adeyemi’s return to Kogi following his appointment as Controller-General in July 2025.

During the visit, he received blessings from traditional rulers and reportedly pledged to establish a new fire station in Kabba.

The fire service originally posted the video on its official channels on April 4, stating, “CGF Olumode Adeyemi returns home to Kogi, receives royal blessings, as stakeholders commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and call for stronger fire safety. Fire station in Kabba underway.”

The display has, however, drawn sharp criticism online.

Many Nigerians on social media pointed to the irony of the fire service chief’s elaborate escort in a country where fire departments across the 36 states allegedly operate limited functional vehicles.“How can anyone realistically hope for Nigeria to improve with this kind of outrageous display from the head of a federal fire agency?

“This isn’t even an exaggeration, about 90% of federal fire stations reportedly lack functional fire engines, yet the agency’s leadership has the funds to acquire multiple SUVs. It’s beyond frustrating. It’s unacceptable,” #ogundamisi reacted on X on Monday.