An early morning fire has gutted portions of a laboratory building at Paul University, Awka, Anambra State, destroying equipment and materials before firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control.
The Anambra State Fire Service confirmed the incident in a statement on Thursday, saying a distress call was received at about 1:10 a.m on Wednesday, prompting the immediate deployment of firefighters to the university.
On arrival, personnel moved swiftly to prevent the fire from spreading to nearby buildings within the institution. The firefighting operation, carried out with support from some members of the public, lasted approximately three hours.
The affected structure was a one-storey building housing a chemical and medical laboratory. Laboratory equipment, materials and parts of the building were damaged in the inferno.
Preliminary findings suggest the fire was triggered by a power surge.
Fortunately, no lives were lost and no injuries were reported. The fire was successfully contained before it could cause more widespread damage to the institution.
The Anambra State Fire Service used the opportunity to advise residents, institutions and property owners to ensure that their electrical installations are properly maintained and protected against power surges to reduce the risk of future fire outbreaks.
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