Federal Fire Service Clarifies Alleged Demand For Payment Before Response Claims

The attention of the Federal Fire Service (FFS) has been drawn to a viral video alleging that firefighters demanded payment before responding to a fire incident at Rumuo Dumanya, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, resulting in the destruction of the affected property.

The Federal Fire Service wishes to categorically clarify that the emergency call referred to in the video was not made to the Federal Fire Service. Furthermore, the Service does not have an operational fire station in Rumuo Dumanya. Our operational presence in Rivers State is located at the Federal Secretariat Complex, Aba Road, Port Harcourt.

As a humanitarian emergency response agency established by law to protect lives, property and the environment from fire and other related emergencies, the Federal Fire Service does not demand or receive payment as a condition for responding to fire incidents. Emergency response is a statutory responsibility of the Service, and our officers are professionally trained and guided by this mandate. At no time are members of the public expected to make any payment before firefighters are deployed to save lives and property.

While the Service cannot speak on behalf of any other organisation that may have been contacted, it is important to state unequivocally that requesting money before, during, or after responding to an emergency is neither the policy nor the practice of the Federal Fire Service.

We deeply sympathise with those affected by the unfortunate fire incident and recognise the pain and losses suffered. We also encourage members of the public to ensure that emergency calls are directed to the appropriate agency, as timely communication is critical to effective emergency response.

For fire and related emergencies, members of the public are advised to call the National Emergency Number: 112 or the Federal Fire Service Emergency Line: 08032003557 for prompt assistance. The public is also encouraged to keep these numbers readily available and to contact the nearest Federal Fire Service station whenever assistance is required within our operational coverage.

The Federal Fire Service remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting lives and property through prompt emergency response, fire prevention, public education and collaboration with relevant stakeholders. We urge the public to verify information before attributing allegations to the Service and to continue partnering with us in promoting a safer Nigeria.

Credit: DCF P.O. Abraham, MPhil, MLCG, BL, LLB, ANIPR, National PRO / Head, Corporate Services, Federal Fire Service,
National Headquarters – 17/7/2026