The Controller-General of the Federal Fire Service, Olumode Adeyemi, has returned to Kogi State for Easter celebrations, where he received royal blessings and engaged with traditional rulers and key stakeholders.
In a post shared on X, the agency highlighted that Adeyemi’s visit featured courtesy calls and a grand reception, noting that he “returns home to Kogi, receives royal blessings, as stakeholders commend Bola Ahmed Tinubu and call for stronger fire safety.”
According to an official statement, Adeyemi, who assumed office in August 2025, visited prominent traditional rulers, including the Muyiwa Ibeun and the Ibrahim Gambo Kabir Maikarfi IV.
He was also welcomed in his hometown, Odo-Ape, with cultural displays, drumming, and royal prayers for a successful tenure. The visit continued in Kabba, where he met the Solomon Owoniyi.
The engagements concluded with a reception at the Olonijola Event Centre in Kabba, attended by dignitaries including the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Joel Salifu Oyibo, who represented Governor Usman Ododo, alongside other political and community leaders.
During the event, stakeholders praised President Tinubu for Adeyemi’s appointment and called for improved fire safety infrastructure in the state. Traditional rulers specifically advocated for the establishment of a National Fire Training School in Kogi and the construction of a fire station in Kabba.
In response, Adeyemi revealed that the service is already taking steps to establish a fire station in Kabba to tackle recurring fire outbreaks, while also appealing for continued collaboration and support from stakeholders.
However, the visit has drawn mixed reactions online following the circulation of a video showing the controller-general arriving in a convoy with outriders. Some Nigerians have criticised the display, questioning its appropriateness given the operational challenges facing the fire service.
What you should know
Olumode Adeyemi’s Easter visit to Kogi State combined official engagements with traditional leaders and advocacy for improved fire safety infrastructure.
While stakeholders welcomed his appointment and proposed new facilities, public reactions have been divided due to concerns over perceived extravagance amid ongoing challenges within the fire service.
The development highlights the balance between official protocol and public expectations of accountability.
