By Odey Ojeka
UGEP (CONVERSEER) – The Federal Fire Service, on Thursday, officially opened a fire station in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area and Ikom, Ikom Local Government Area. The ceremony was led by Controller Williams, head of the Federal Fire Service for Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, representing the Controller‑General.
Controller Williams praised Senator Eteng Jonah Williams for his persistent advocacy. “Senator Williams has urged me several times to establish a Federal Fire Service in Yakurr and Ikom. Today, we finally have a presence here in Yakurr,” he said.
He also commended the Yakurr Local Government Chairman, Hon. Yibala Igri Inyang, for providing council space for the temporary office.
Ikoi Uket Eteng (also known as Ben Ben Bruce), liaison officer representing Senator Williams, welcomed the controller and noted that the senator’s efforts have attracted federal presence to the area.
The officer‑in‑charge of the new unit is OC Ofem Ubana Edet.
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After the opening, the senator’s liaison officer, Eteng, escorted Controller Williams and his entourage to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Yakurr and Obol Lopon of Ugep, Obol Ofem Ubana.
The Obol Lopon of Ugep offered royal blessings and pledged land for a permanent fire‑service complex, saying discussions would continue with the Yakurr Council Chairman.
Controller Williams announced that equipment will be moved to the Ugep and Ikom offices and that additional officers will be deployed, though specific numbers and timelines have not yet been finalised.
The liaison officer then accompanied the delegation to meet former House of Representatives member, Chief Obeten Okorn.
Chief Okorn welcomed them and commended Senator Williams for facilitating the establishment of the Federal Fire Service in Yakurr.
The establishment of the Federal Fire Service in Yakurr is a crucial step for the community. It will provide rapid response to fires and emergencies, protect lives and property, support local economic activities, and strengthen the region’s overall safety infrastructure.
This federal presence underscores Senator Eteng Jonah Williams’ commitment to improving essential services across the Cross River Central Senatorial District.
